WEST CHESTER, PA -- Dakota Delbridge, a goalie for the Philadelphia Jr. Flyers, has joined Concordia University Wisconsin for the second half of the 2017-18 season. The Falcons are currently in 2nd place in the South Division of the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA).

“Dakota is very mature, and he was a leader on and off the ice," said Jr. Flyers head coach and general manager Jerry Domish. "A great kid to coach; he is a great competitor and very good goalie. Despite our on ice struggles he kept us in every game that he played. Once he adjusts to the college level of play, he will help them with maturity and focus. He is all business and that will help. Dakota is a hard worker that competes on every puck. He has a great attitude, and he's fun to be around."

In the first half of the season, Delbridge won three games for the Jr. Flyers, and in each victory he made over 30 saves. Not all players get the chance to join a college program in the middle of the season, and the native of California took some time to reflect on his opportunity and thank those who helped him along the way.

“This was by far the best season from a social aspect," said Delbridge. "The group of guys we had on our team was unbelievable, and the atmosphere of the organization was none other compared to other Junior A programs. I’ve learned to become more aggressive in my play, and Coach Domish allowed myself to take on a leadership role of the team in order to hold guys accountable and to encourage them through difficult times. I learned how to improve my overall game by developing a strong mental attitude with the help of my teammates and coaching staff. I was also able to physically improve my flexibility and strength with the help of our athletic trainers.”

An injury sped up the conversation between Delbridge and the Falcons, and we will keep an eye on the '97 down the final stretch of the season.

Learn more about the Philadelphia Jr. Flyers on the team's official website, and check out the full list of 2018 NCAA Commitments.