HOOKSETT, NH -- Derek Tillotson, a forward for the New Hampshire Avalanche, has committed to to the University of Southern Maine for the Fall of 2018. The '97 just finished his second season in the EHL, and his first with the Avalanche. In total, Tillotson racked up 60 points in 69 career games in the EHL.

"When Derek puts his mind to it, he is a very good player," said Avalanche head coach and general manager Chris Cerrella. "He has skill, he competes, and he is a very smart player with and without the puck. I think USM and Coach Harding is a great fit for Derek and I think he will do a great job for the Huskies next season. I wish Derek and his family the best of luck."

It's been just over two weeks since Tillotson and the Avalanche capped off the 2017-18 season with an EHL Championship. It was a special year for the program in their inaugural season of operating a junior franchise, and Tillotson was one of many key pieces for the team. The native of Bow, NH dressed in five playoff games for the Avalanche, racking up three total points, including a goal in the title game against the Philadelphia Revolution. Looking back on his time in the EHL, Tillotson is very grateful of how it helped guide him to the next level.

"I would like to first thank the New Hampshire Avalanche organization for this entire season," said Tillotson. "I made so many life long friends and memories on this journey to college hockey. The organization took me in halfway through this season and they made me feel like I was there from the beginning. Thank you Coach Cerrella for always pushing me to be better, not only me, but our entire team as a unit on and off the ice. Winning the EHL Championship this season was the best way to cap it off and it's all due to the coaching staff and the front office; there is no better staff out there. I have played in the EHL for the past two seasons and have had an unforgettable time. The league promotes player development and is one of the best at college placement. The Avalanche is a great place to play if you want to play college hockey, and they helped me achieve my goal. Thank you Coach Harding at the University of Southern Maine for giving me this opportunity to become a Husky. I am very excited about becoming a student-athlete in the Fall. Lastly, I would like to thank my family who have supported me throughout my academic and athletic career. I can not put into words what they have done for me, and I wouldn't be where I am today without them."

Learn more about the New Hampshire Avalanche on the team's official website, and check out the full list of 2018 NCAA Commitments.