The '99 native of Indiana, PA is in his second season with the Seahawks, and to date, he's tallied 82 total points in 73 career games in the Eastern Hockey League (EHL).

"Pat has been one of the best 200-foot players in the league, and has the ability to score and close the ice on players with this speed," said Seahawks head coach and general manager Bill Zaniboni. "We are very excited to announce that Pat has accepted the opportunity to be a student-athlete at Norwich University."

Upon his arrival at Norwich, the 2019 EHL All-Star will enjoy the comfort of already knowing one of his teammates, John Banovetz. Banovetz spent a pair of seasons with the Seahawks, including this past year when O'Neal joined the club. This makes it back-to-back years for the Cadets, welcoming in back-to-back EHL All-Stars from the Seahawks.

"I am excited to be continuing my education at Norwich University," said O'Neal. "It's a great academic fit for me, and I look forward to being a part of such a strong and respected hockey tradition. I would like to thank my parents for everything they've done to keep me on the ice over the years, as well as Coach Zaniboni, the Seahawks organization, and the EHL for providing me with the best opportunity to advance."

O'Neal and the Seahawks hit the holiday break right in the thick of things in the New England Conference. With just 16 games remaining in the regular season, the Seahawks will lean on their veteran scorer, as they push to secure a bye in the upcoming EHL Playoffs.

Learn more about the Seahawks on the team's official website, and check out the full 2019-20 NCAA commitment list.