Rangers Cole O’Hara commits to UMass

NORTH YORK, ON - NOVEMBER 25: Cole O'Hara #19 of the North York Rangers skates with the puck behind the net while being chased by Joseph Franzin #17 of the Pickering Panthers on November 25, 2018 at Herbert Carnegie Centennial Arena in North York, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Ray MacAloney / OJHL Images)
February 22, 2019

1:49 PM EST

North York Rangers Cole O’Hara officially committed to the University of Massachusetts for the 2021-2022 season.

Since day one of the season, the 16-year-old rookie has been an impactful player. The former Hamilton Bulldogs draft pick has recorded 11 goals and 31 assists for 42 points in 52 games. Before making the jump to the Ontario Junior Hockey League, O’Hara was apart of the Toronto Junior Canadiens Minor Midget AAA team that captured the OHL Cup championship over the No. 1 Vaughan Kings. The Toronto, Ont., native knew that UMass was a perfect fit from the moment he stepped found on campus.

“Right when I arrived at UMass I was completely blown away. From the staff at UMass, all the way to their facilities and the atmosphere, it was a no brainer that this is where I wanted to play,” O’Hara stated.

Even North York Rangers head coach Geoff Schomogyi believes UMass and O’Hara is a perfect fit.

We are very pleased and excited for Cole on his commitment to UMass,” said Schomogyi. “Cole has been highly sought after all year and we believe he has made a great choice joining UMass in Hockey East. Cole has been nothing but spectacular this year for us. He brings a high hockey IQ and great work ethic to our team.”

During the campaign, the rookie has helped the Rangers average the second most goals per games (3.96) and the third best power play (20.53%). North York have experienced a historic season setting a new franchise with 39 wins and clinched the number one seat in South-East conference.

The Rangers will face off against the Toronto Junior Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs starting next week.