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Former NJ Rocket, defenseman Sean Rappleyea has verbally committed to the University of Alabama-Huntsville for the 2016-17 season

By Chris Cahill, 05/13/16, 3:15PM EDT

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Ottawa, ON - The Ottawa Jr. Senators Hockey Club is pleased to announce that defenseman Sean Rappleyea has verbally committed to the University of Alabama-Huntsville for the 2016-17 season.
 
"I cannot say that I'm surprised to see Sean Rappleyea make the jump to Division 1 hockey. He has been the league's top defenceman from start to finish this year, said head coach & general manager Martin Dagenais. Not only can he skate like a pro, he also has a tremendous hockey IQ.  I'm very happy for him because he is such a quality young man."
                                          
The 20 year old from South Amboy, New Jersey came to the Senators two years ago from the New Jersey Rockets program. In 50 games this season, he registered 3 goals and 35 assists for a total of 38 points. He also scored a goal, and added 8 assists in the playoffs, good for 9 points.
 
"I would like to thank my family, friends, teammates, and also the coaching staff of both the Ottawa Jr. Senators and the New Jersey Rockets for all their help and support throughout my hockey career as they really helped me get to this point, said Rappleyea."
 
The University of Alabama-Huntsville Chargers finished with an overall record of 7-21-6 last season, but with some young, and talented players coming in next season, they're expected to be a middle of the pack team.
 
"I think it will be a good fit for me because it's a team that is up and coming, and I think it's a great opportunity for me to come right in, and have an impact, mentionned Rappleyea. "Also, from an academic standpoint, UAH is going to provide me with a very good education, and that's very important to me."
 
Making the transition to the next level of hockey will not be easy for Rappleyea, but he is willing to work hard in order to succeed.
 
"I think the main thing for me is that I'll need to get stronger physically during the summer. That will be my main priority."