The New Jersey 87's are proud to announce that George Weiner has committed to play Division hockey at Wentworth Institute of Technology for the 2021-2022 season.

Weiner is a 20-year-old defenseman from Wayne, NJ and is in his second season with the 87's. Serving as a co-captain, Weiner has recorded 31 points (6g, 25a) through 30 games in the 2020-21 campaign.

"It's a great fit for Georgie, it's a great school academically and it's a great spot that Georgie wanted to be around," said 87's head coach Adam Houli. "The program is very very good, so it's just a good fit for George. When it came in that they were finally ready to take him, it was super exciting."

Wentworth Institute of Technology is a Division III program located in Boston, Massachusetts. Competing in Commonwealth Coast Conference, the Leopards are led by head coach Jay Pecora.

Weiner discussed what it means for him to commit to an NCAA program in his final year of junior eligibility. 

"It means a lot to me, playing college is something I dreamed about as a kid. It's also nice to have that weight off my shoulders at this point in the season and be able to put all my focus into our team and winning," Weiner said.

Since joining the 87's last season, Weiner established himself as a physical presence on the blue line while contributing on the offensive side of the game as well. He's also led the team's power play over the last two seasons, recording 25 points (8g, 17a) while on the man advantage.

Houli talked about Weiner's development within the organization and how his game was able to improve over the 2020-21 season.

"He's been here for two years, he's really bought into the process and he really trusted us as a staff," Houli said. "He was one of the first kids to come back right after we shut down last year, he wanted to get going right away. He wanted the guys to get going, so he's really lived that mantra of finishing the job. And for him personally he's finished the job and got to where he's got to with hard work and doing it the right way."

As a New Jersey native, Weiner has played for several notable hockey programs in the Garden State, including Don Bosco Prep, the New Jersey Hitmen of the USPHL and the New Jersey Titans of the AYHL and NAHL. He spoke about the 87's and how the program stands out in getting him ready for the collegiate level.

"They have helped my development tremendously. Coming to the 87's was the best thing that could've happened to me," Weiner said. "Houli and Matty have given me more than enough opportunities to succeed. They're very smart and know the game well, and when you listen to them it makes the game easy."

The 87's organization would like to congratulate George and his family as he prepares to advance his hockey career to the NCAA Division III level.