KALAMAZOO, MI – Tuesday evening, Anthony Thomas-Maroon (St. Louis, MO) announced his commitment to play NCAA Division I Ice Hockey at Western Michigan University of the National Collegiate Hockey Conference. The St. Louis native will be the 15^th Lumberjack to play at WMU.
 
 
"The coaching staff and the whole facility, people, campus, and town are top tier. The coaching staff really cares, and they can get you to the next level," said Thomas-Maroon when asked about his decision.
 
The path from Muskegon down Interstate 96 and US-131 is one that many players have taken throughout the previous 15 seasons of Muskegon Lumberjacks hockey. According to Lumberjacks head coach Colten St. Clair, the commitment makes sense thanks to Thomas-Maroon's style of play and its similarity to Bronco hockey.
 
"You're seeing somebody's game that is essentially Western Michigan's style. He's got a really good 200-foot game, and I think with Anthony, his game translates because he always finds a way to make an impact." Said St. Clair.
 
As for the timing of the commitment, Thomas-Maroon has had plenty of chances to commit to a school, but wanted to make sure he found the right place for himself rather than jumping at the first opportunity.
 
"I didn't want to rush anything. I told my parents that there was no need to rush, and I'll find the right fit for me." Part of the process of finding the right fit was starting the season in Muskegon and showcasing his skills to scouts at the Junior Hockey level.
 
"Proving myself that I can play at the next level. I was traded in the offseason, and Muskegon took a chance on me. Our coaching staff here wants to develop you as a player, and they can help develop me into a difference maker at the next level in the NCAA." Thomas-Maroon finished.
 
Coach St. Clair finished, "It's well earned. (Anthony) is somebody who is making a name for himself, and that's what he really wants to do, and that's what makes it so special. I couldn't be prouder of him."

Congratulations, Anthony, on your commitment to Western Michigan!
 
Full list of Jacks alumni to play for Western Michigan Men's Hockey:
Branndon Bussi
Cam Knuble
Carson Vance
Corey Schueneman
Daniel Hilsendager
Dylan Wendt
Frederik Tiffels
Griffen Molino
Jacob Napier
Matt Iacopelli
Max Sasson
Oliver McDonald
Scooter Brickey
Ty Henricks  
About the Muskegon Lumberjacks
The Muskegon Lumberjacks are proud and dedicated members of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the nation's only Tier I junior hockey league and leading producer of NCAA players and National Hockey League draft picks in the United States. The club's goal is to create an environment where student-athletes develop into successful young men, both on and off the ice. This includes playing the game the right way while maintaining academic excellence in the classroom and staying actively involved in the West Michigan community. The organization is committed to providing high-quality, affordable, and top-notch family entertainment while serving as positive role models for the youth and local community.