Douglas, a native of Gibsonia, PA, is in his second season in the Eastern Hockey League and first year with the 87’s. In 33 games so far with New Jersey, Douglas has recorded five goals and 12 assists for 17 points.
87’s head coach Adam Houli spoke about Douglas’ contributions to the team and what it means to see him earn an NCAA commitment.
"Cole has been tremendous for us; he has been very steady and very reliable day in and day out," Houli said. “He is going to be a very good college player. I am very excited he has found a place that he is very excited about, I can’t wait to see how he finishes the year for us."
Saint Michael’s College is a Division II program located in Colchester, VT. Competing in the Northeast-10 Conference, the Purple Knights are coached by Damian DiGiulian.
Douglas reflected on his commitment and his ongoing tenure with the 87’s.
"I am very excited and grateful to being committed to attend and play hockey for Saint Michael’s College," said Douglas. "I can’t thank my family enough for supporting me and my hockey career over the years and getting me to this point. I’d like to thank the coaching staff at Saint Michael’s for this incredible opportunity, as well as the New Jersey 87’s organization and especially coaches Adam Houli, Jack Lane, and Cam Pape, for all they have done for this team and I this season. I am excited to keep pushing and head into playoffs with the fantastic group of guys that we have on the 87’s."
Throughout the 2023-24 season, Douglas has emerged as two-way defenseman and has been vital to the team’s blue line and power play units. In addition to his stellar regular-season play, Douglas was selected to the Central/South Division All-Star team and played against Stevenson University and Lebanon Valley College.
The 87’s organization would like to congratulate Cole and his family as he prepares to advance is hockey career to the Division II collegiate level.