Sarcona Commits to Niagara University

The last time we mentioned West Islip native TJ Sarcona on Patch it was for his recognition as a by the North American Hockey League.  Well, we now have bigger news to report.

Sarcona, 19, a 2010 graduate of WIHS, has officially committed to play DI hockey at Niagara University, according to the NAHL.

Sarcona spent the past few season in Texas as a forward with the Amarillo Bulls, where he compiled 20 goals and 30 assists in only 47 games.  

“Every person who plays junior hockey has the dream of playing Division I hockey, and I have succeeded in that dream," Sarcona said in a statement. “Playing in Niagara means being a lot closer to home so that my parents can come up and see me play in a weekend series.”

He'll enroll in the fall of 2012 and immediately join the Purple Eagles' team.  Bulls' coach Dennis Williams was extremely proud of what Sarcona has accomplished during his time in the NAHL.

“To be able to coach TJ for the last couple of years has been fantastic,” Williams said in a statement. “It’s an honor for me. I think the world of him as a player and as a person. I know for a fact that he is going to do a great job at the next level for Niagara. TJ will be an impact player not only on the ice but in the classroom and in the community.”