The '98 native of Nikayuna, NY is in his second season with the Avalanche, and to date, he's tallied 31 points in 49 career games in the Eastern Hockey League (EHL).

"Nick is one of the best locker room guys I have ever coached," said Avalanche head coach and general manager Chris Cerrella. "He loves the game, loves to compete, and plays the game the right way. We count on him in all situations from the PP, to the PK, to defensive zone face-offs with under a minute to go. I think USM is a great fit for Nick and he is going to be a great addition to the Huskies and to the USM community. He will be missed in our locker room, at our youth skills skates, and around our arena. We are very excited about the opportunity Nick earned playing junior hockey for us; we wish him and his family nothing but the best."

After seeing his 2017-18 season cut short due to injury, Ritmo pushed himself hard throughout the offseason, in preparation for this year. The gritty forward has already surpassed his point total from a year ago, and looks to be a key factor as the Avalanche head towards the playoffs, with goals of repeating as EHL Champions. Ritmo is beyond grateful for the time he's spent in New Hampshire.

"It feels like yesterday when I was a young kid wanting to play college hockey and looking up to the older kids; now that day has come for me," said Ritmo. "I am truly honored to be joining the University of Southern Maine both on the ice and in the classroom. I want to thank Coach Harding for giving me this life-changing opportunity. I want to thank Coach Cerrella for all he has done for me and I would like to thank the entire Avalanche organization. I want to also thank all my past coaches for helping me develop as a hockey player and a young man. I also want to thank my teammates for always pushing me every day both on the ice and in the weight room. Lastly I want to thank my family; thank you for your constant support throughout the years."

Ritmo and the Avalanche hit the ice next at the January Showcase, with matchups scheduled against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights on Sunday and the New Jersey 87s on Monday.

Learn more about the New Hampshire Avalanche on the team's official website, and check out the full 2018-19 NCAA commitment list.