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Sountis Commits to Rivier University

By Neil Ravin - Director of Communications, 01/12/21, 3:00PM EST

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Express Defenseman Set to Join New Program this Fall

WALPOLE, MA -- Jack Sountis, a defenseman for the Walpole Express, has committed to Rivier University for the fall of 2021.

The '01 native of Monroe, NY came to the Eastern Hockey League (EHL) for his 2nd season of junior hockey, and made this commitment prior to reaching his age-out year. In 24 total games to date, Sountis has tallied 10 assists to his name.

"Jack has been very consistent for us all season long at both ends of the rink," said Express head coach and general manager Cody Campbell. "He is able to to defend hard when he needs to and use his offensive ability to help contribute 5 on 5, as well as on the power play. Rivier is getting a very happy go lucky kid that will bring great energy to a new program from day one.”

Upon his arrival at Rivier this fall, Sountis will be part of an incoming freshmen class that will be looking to lay the foundation for the new NCAA Division III program. So far this season, Sountis is one of five players to commit to join the Raiders from the EHL. The remaining list includes his teammate Eric BuchholzCarson Fotheringham from the New Hampshire Avalanche, and Austin Finch and Anthony Purdue from the Seahawks Hockey Club.

"Rivier has the academic options I am interested in pursuing and Coach Sorenson is very easy to communicate with, which made me that much more comfortable," said Sountis. "During my visit, everyone seemed very excited about the new hockey team which in turn excited me about joining a program with so much buzz around it. I talked to some teachers and they assured me that academics and athletics are able to be done together, each at a high level, which is something my family and I valued. I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of building a tradition at Rivier starting next fall.”

Sountis went on to talk about how the Express helped him reach his ultimate goal of playing college hockey.

"Playing for the Express has not only shaped me into a better hockey player, but man as well," added Sountis. "Coach Campbell has been such a great help throughout the season making sure myself and my teammates do what’s right not only on but off the ice too. I feel like I have made big strides developing thus far this season, and how I play now compared to in the past is a big part of why I have been afforded the opportunity to reach college hockey. With Coach Campbell's help I was able to talk to multiple college coach coaches and make a decision that may never have happened without his guidance.”

Sountis and the Express return to action this weekend when they play host to the Western Mass Chiefs on Friday and Saturday night.

Learn more about the Express on the team's official website, and check out the full 2020-21 NCAA commitment list.

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