Nelson Leafs captain Bennett Anklewich has signed to play for the King’s College Monarchs in NCAA Division III next season.
Anklewich was third on the Leafs in points with 33 in 42 games and added seven more in four playoff games. In 85 career games over three seasons with the Leafs, the Calgary product had 22 goals and 66 points.
Anklewich said his experience in the KIJHL was “nothing short of amazing.”
“I have absolutely loved my time with the Nelson Leafs and am thrilled to be able to step up to the next level,” he said in a news release. “The Leafs organization has made it possible for me to realize my dream of playing NCAA college hockey.”
Leafs head coach-GM Briar McNaney said Anklewich was not only a great player for the Leafs, but he was fantastic away from the rink.
“He would help organize and participate in many community activities with a smile and take time to say hello to any fans or children around the rink, even if it meant him changing his routines,” said McNaney.
“Bennett made himself a fan favourite for many reasons and we will surely miss him, but we are extremely proud to call him one of our own.”