The '02 native of Falmouth, ME spent a pair of seasons developing with the Spartans, and over the course of 81 career games in the Eastern Hockey League (EHL), James collected 37 points to his credit on 16 goals and 21 assists.

"Carson is the type of player that could have played in any generation,” said Spartans head coach and general manager Brett Tryder. “He is an honest and hardworking player whose game will translate well to the NCAA level. He brings value as both a center and a wing, and he can kill penalties and play on the power play. CJ was a crucial part of this team’s success and culture, and the hockey world could use more players just like him. Carson’s style of play will suit him well and I have no doubt that he will be a very good player at the next level. I am very excited about CJ’s commitment. He was always a great teammate and bought in to anything that was being taught. He is a tough kid, and he will be a great addition to the Salem State community."

Speaking of James as a teammate, he will be maintaining that role with additional pair of Spartans that are following the same path to Salem State. The three-player class from the EHL also includes Chase Conlon and Carson Whitman from Seacoast.

James is looking forward to already knowing a pair of his teammates, and he's also beyond grateful to the Spartans organization for helping him achieve this lifelong goal.

“I want to thank Coach Tryder, Coach [Paul] Walker, and the entire Seacoast organization for an awesome two seasons in Exeter," said James. "Our whole team has grown and developed, helping us prepare for college hockey. I will miss going to The Rinks at Exeter every day, but I am excited to start my new chapter of my career with my teammates [Whitman and Chase Conlon] at Salem State.”

Learn more about the Spartans on the team's official website, and check out the full 2022-23 NCAA commitment list.