University of Massachusets Athletics
Three Sign NLI's To Play Hockey At UMass
November 17, 2005 | Hockey
Nov. 17, 2005
AMHERST, Mass. - University of Massachusetts Hockey Coach Don Cahoon announced Thursday the signing of three United States Hockey League (USHL) players to National Letters of Intent. Nicholas Grasso, Brian Keane and James Marcou are the three forwards committed to UMass.
"These three young men have been verbally committed to us for some time, and this is just the beginning of what we know will be successful careers at UMass," said Cahoon. "All three offer a different dimension to our program and will be great additions over the course of their four years here."
Grasso is currently a forward with the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders out of Iowa, and has scored one goal so far this season. A 6'1, 170 lb. native of Smithtown, N.Y., he has also played for the New York Bobcats (AJHL) and the Suffolk Knights (MJHL).
"Nick has size and great vision," said Cahoon. "He started out as a defenseman and was converted to a forward, which we recruited him as. This gives us some stability in the position. Nick will be a benefit to us on special teams as he has the ability to stay back."
Keane now plays with the Chicago Steel and has spent time with the Rochester Jr. Americans (EJHL 'B'). In 12 games this year, the 5'11, 165 lb. native of Shortsville, N.Y. has four goals and 10 assists, which places him fourth on the team in scoring.
"Brian has flat-out speed," said Cahoon. "He plays a high-tempo game and we can see him taking on a centerman role at Massachusetts."
Marcou rounds out the early signees and currently plays for the Waterloo (Iowa) Blackhawks. He is a 5'7, 150 lb. native of Kings Park, N.Y., and was named to the USA Junior Select 18 & Under Team, set to compete at the 2006 Viking Cup in Camrose, Alberta (Dec. 26 - Jan. 2). Like Grasso, Marcou has also played for the New York Bobcats. In 10 games played this season, he has three goals and one assist.
"James is an incredibly clever player," said Cahoon. "He's a gifted playmaker and will benefit tremendously from his time with the Junior Select team."
More information will be posted on these individuals as it becomes available.
