BISMARCK, N.D.–The Bismarck Bobcats are pleased to share that defenseman Michael Neumeier will continue his hockey career at Colgate University.
The 19-year-old Neumeier announced his commitment on Monday. He becomes the fourth current Bobcat with a Division I college deal.
“It is awesome for (Neumeier)” head coach Layne Sedevie said. “He had quite a few options, went on some visits … That is the fun part about what the Bobcats have to offer here. The ability to get a college scholarship and fulfill your dreams.”
Neumeier is in the midst of what he and the team hopes is a breakout season. In his second year with the Bobcats, Neumeier has 11 points in 10 games. That number led the league until the team’s bye week last week. He finished last season with a commendable 28 points, much of his scoring coming later in the year.
He used whatever time he had, including the bye week, to go on college visits with the goal of securing a commitment early in the season. Mission accomplished.
“(Neumeier) got the best offer he could possibly get from Colgate,” Sedevie said. “His uncle went there and there is some history there, so he ended up deciding on a great spot.”
Neumeier is the second Colgate commit under Layne Sedevie. He will join the other, Tommy Bergsland, on the Raiders’ blue line. Bergsland played in 40 games as a freshman last season.
“I think we have seen a really good transition of what Mike can be,” Sedevie said. “I really feel that he is probably the best defenseman in this league. Kudos to him for getting that deal done, and now he can focus on what he needs to focus on.”
Colgate, based in Hamilton, N.Y. and competing in ECAC Hockey, has over a dozen alumni who have reached the National Hockey League.
“Wins are great,” Sedevie said. “But when you can get a young man an opportunity to play college hockey, there is nothing better.”