The '03 native of Cranston, RI recently finished his second and final season with HCRI, and over the course of 86 career games in the Eastern Hockey League (EHL), Costa tallied 44 total points to his credit on 11 goals and 33 assists.

"I am extremely proud of Jake and happy for him and his family," said HCRI head coach James Mello. "Watching Jake grow as a person and a player these past two years has been very rewarding. Having guys like Jake to work with and be around each day made coming to the rink each day easy because they cared so much about each other and about our organization. Coach Young and the WNEU Golden Bears did a great job recruiting Jake and were open and transparent the entire time, so glad it worked out for all."

Costa is one of six players from around the league that have committed to the Golden Bears program, with the other five players coming from four different EHL teams.

"I cannot thank my family and H.C. Rhode Island for all their support and the opportunity to play junior and college hockey," said Costa. "The EHL helped me grow on and off the ice. From our general manager, to coaching staff, teammates, and trainer it was the best I could’ve asked for. I’m very excited to have found a spot at Western New England University. It was a very easy decision after meeting with Coach Young and being on campus. I am looking forward to what the next four years brings."

Speaking of the General Manager of HCRI, Toby O'Brien took a moment to congratulate his defenseman as well.

"I am so happy for Jake and his entire family, he is 1000% why we founded H.C. Rhode Island in 2022 and we could not have scripted this outcome any better," said O'Brien. "Jake is like a son to me. I have known him and his family for years and care greatly for him. He has trained with us over the years and now works for us at many of our OverSpeed Hockey programs. To me, he epitomizes what we have stressed and tried to create since day one - #HCRIFamily - congrats Jake and thanks for helping us build a great program!"

Check out the full 2023-24 NCAA commitment list.