SUDBURY, Ont. – The Soo Eagles of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL) have announced that defenceman C.J. Zaharias has committed to attend NCAA Division III Beloit College where he will further his education and continue his playing career with the Buccaneers men’s hockey program.
Hailing from Prairie Grove, Illinois, the 20-year-old Zaharias set single-season bests from the back end for Sault Ste. Marie during the campaign in games played (49); goals (3); assists (15) and points (18).
In 95 career NOJHL contests, he collected 29 points on five tallies and 24 helpers.
It was an incredible experience being a member of the Eagles and playing in the NOJHL,” Zaharias said. “I’m excited for the road ahead where I’ll be continuing my hockey career at Beloit College. I can’t wait for this next chapter.”
On the commitment, Soo head coach Jeremy Rebek offered: “C.J. is a dedicated, no-nonsense type athlete and person. His work ethic is second to none. Beloit is getting a very strong, focused, gritty D-man with a good feel for the game.”
Located in Beloit, Wis., the Buccaneers compete in the six-school NCAA D-III Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC).
NOJHL player commitments from the 2025-26 season
Soo Eagles: C.J. Zaharias, (D) NCAA D-III – Beloit College (WIAC)
Soo Eagles: Nolan Nemecek, (F) NCAA D-III – Southern New Hampshire Penmen (NE10)
Soo Eagles: Ethan Hoff, (F) NCAA D-III – Southern New Hampshire Penmen (NE10)
Greater Sudbury Cubs: Daks Klinkhammer, (F) USPORTS – Ontario Tech Ridgebacks (OUA)
Greater Sudbury Cubs: Iain Wintle, (G) USPORTS – Guelph Gryphons (OUA)
Powassan Voodoos: Ben Gisoni, (D) NCAA D-III – Massachusetts College (MASCAC)
Powassan Voodoos: Marcus Krats, (D) NCAA D-III – Concordia-Wisconsin (NCHA)
Powassan Voodoos: Bruce Grey, (D) Europe – Prague Guardians (EUCHL)
Photo credit: Justin Cairns
