Thunderbirds alum Lackas commits to NCAA Division III Albertus Magnus
A.J. Lackas, a forward for the New England Wolves, has committed to Albertus Magnus College for the fall of 2024.
The ’03 native of Las Vegas just completed his third season with the Wolves at the EHL level. He was an immediate impact player with 28 points in his first year. However, this past year was his most productive to date, eclipsing the 20-goal plateau and registering 53 total points.
Overall, Lackas hit the ice for 127 games throughout his EHL career, tallying 115 points along the way (48 goals, 67 assists).
“He has been a huge part of our success here at the Wolves, including our trip two seasons ago to the Frozen Finals in Providence,” said Wolves head coach Tim Kunes. “He has put in a lot of work to become a college hockey player and really taken advantage of what our program can offer in terms of development.”
Lackas has gotten a taste of college hockey while participating in the EHL All-Star College Series. Competing with the Main All-Star Team, he took on SUNY Fredonia and SUNY Brockport back in October, tallying a goal and an assist during the exhibition series.
“The EHL and the Wolves organization has not only helped me develop as a person and player, but also helped with exposure to NCAA hockey,” said Lackas. “Albertus was an easy choice once I saw the facilities and everything they had to offer. It’s a top-notch program with a great atmosphere and a great location. It was a no-brainer.”
Lackas is one of three EHL players that have committed to join the Falcons this fall, as he will join Akezhan Melis from the Boston Jr. Rangers and Mike Santonelli from the New Hampshire Avalanche when he arrives on campus.
“AJ is a true team player and to see him continuing his career at the NCAA level is very gratifying as a coach,” said Kunes. “AJ has been a top player in the EHL for the last three seasons. He’s going to be a great player for Coach (Kyle) Wallack.”
During his youth hockey days, Lackas spent time with the Colorado Thunderbirds.
Photo/Dan Hickling/Hickling Images
(April 10, 2024)