New England forward Latham commits to play NCAA hockey
May 14, 2015
New England Stars and NA3EHL forward Jake Latham has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey at Franklin Pierce University.
Latham was a consistent name on the Stars scoresheet last season, having scored 41 points in 40 games (23 goals, 18 assists). Latham is a native of Nashua, N.H., and stands at 5'6" and 150lbs. Though he is one of the smaller players on the teams, Latham goes above and beyond to make up for it with his speed and his scoring touch.
"Jake was recruited throughout the season by Franklin Pierce, who'd shown a high level of interest in him," said Stars General Manager Dan Fontas. "They felt he was a player who could come in right away and contribute to the team as a freshman."
In addition to his abilities as a goal-scorer, Latham stood out to the Franklin Pierce hockey coaching staff for his willingness to hunt the puck.
"His grit and his determination made him stand out," said Fontas. "He's a kid who is on the smaller end but he's got the tenacity to grind it out and be offensively productive. He has really good hands in tight areas and a quick first couple of steps. He protects the puck well and wants the puck on his stick."
Off the ice, Latham also shines.
"He's a great kid. He is a great locker room kid, everyone loves being around him. He quietly goes about his way but he is dedicated off the ice and at workouts. Usually he is one of the first ones in the locker room, he doesn't miss a workout," said Fontas. "He has good character."
The Stars will miss Latham on their roster next season, but know he will succeed as he joins former Stars teammate Cam Webster in college.
"He's really excited, and it was a process where we knew that's where he wanted to go, so it was more of formality to make sure he got into the school and got the academic and financial package that was right for him and his family," said Fontas. "Since everything has been finalized, we're really excited for him to join Cam Webster at the college level."
