Winter Wallace is the epitome of the term “student-athlete.”

The Boulder native has spent the last two seasons in the USHL and will begin his college career in the fall playing for NCAA Division I Cornell University, an Ivy League school in Ithaca, N.Y.

“Cornell is a school that I began talking to when my recruiting process first began and I have always loved the history and pride they take in winning and becoming a pro,” Wallace said. “It was a no-brainer when the time came.  The school is very appealing to me. The angle is obviously playing in the NHL, and I think they do a great job of developing pros that play a certain brand which was very attractive to me.

“Cornell has great history and has moved on many great players. It means a lot to be a part of a program like that and to be able to look up certain guys that have paved the way. I’m excited for the future with them. 

“To add the Ivy League education is a bonus.”

Off the ice at Cornell, Wallace will be attending the SC Johnson College of Business.

Wallace started the 2020-21 season with the Lincoln Stars before landing with the Youngstown Phantoms, where he also played the 2021-22 campaign. Overall in 91 USHL games, the skilled forward tallied 20 goals and 43 points.

“My past two seasons in the USHL have been great for me and my development,” said Wallace. “I’ve learned a lot the past two years and it’s prepared me for the next level.  

“The commitment doesn’t really take any pressure off my shoulders, though. I’m just going to keep working at my game and keep taking strides. I’m excited to focus and have a good upcoming summer, keep developing my skill set, skating, speed and strength on and off the ice this summer.”

During his youth hockey career, Wallace played for the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders and Boulder Bison.

Photo/Scott Galvin 

— Matt Mackinder

(May 13, 2022)