PHOTO courtesy icelevel.com
By Sean Marcellus
The Central Canada Hockey League and Ottawa Jr Senators are pleased to announce that defenseman Merrick Rippon has committed to NCAA Division I Providence College for 2018-19.
The 2000 born Ottawa, ON native is in his rookie season with the Jr Sens but you would think he is a seasoned vet based on his play. Through 25 games, the 6-1, 190 lb blueliner has 4 goals and 15 points, placing him 1st amongst defensemen on the Jr Sens and 8th overall in the league.
He spent last season with the Jr Senators AAA U18 Midget program where he totaled 13 goals and 32 points in 46 games and was named the HEO AAA leagues Top Defenseman.
“Everyone knows what Merrick Rippon brings to the table as a hockey player, but what's most important to us, is the fact that he's an ultimate team guy”, stated Jr Sens GM and Head Coach Martin Dagenais. “With Merrick, it's never about himself. Obviously, he wants to be the best player on the ice every night, that's just the way he is, but at the end of the day, he wants his team to win. That's part of the reason why at 16, he's already well respected, not only by his teammates, but also by his opponents, who are all older than him”.
WHAT THE SCOUTS ARE SAYING
Benjamin Gallant – Regional Scout – Central Canada (ISS HOCKEY)
Two-way defenseman that competes hard on both sides of the puck. Offensively has good shot, makes good reads and can jump up into the play. Defensively uses smarts to take away lanes with body and stick, keeps players wide, physically able to close gaps. Able to handle bigger stronger players physically. NHL potential.
Ron MacLean – Regional Scout – Central Canada (ISS HOCKEY)
Skating is very strong both forwards and backwards, carries the puck in traffic and passes are spot on under pressure. Should turn into an All-Star wherever he plays.
