Rochester, MI- Oakland ACHA DI Hockey general manager Corey Hagood is pleased to announce that defenseman Patrick Czarnecki has committed to Oakland. Czarnecki comes to Oakland from the Cranbrook Bucks of The British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL).
“I’m excited and it will be a great way to play the game I love.” Czarnecki stated about committing to Oakland.
Czarnecki also played in The United States Hockey League (USHL) for the Omaha Lancers and the Madison Capitols.
“After taking a year off, I still have that passion to play the game I’ve played for the last 15 years. I started skating at practices this past winter and really enjoy the group of guys.”
Oakland Head coach Nick Mammel knows the significance of landing a player of Czarnecki’s caliber. “It’s a huge turning point for Oakland to land a commitment from a BCHL/USHL player.” Mammel stated. “Patrick is one heck of a young man and he’s also an elite hockey player.”
“The impact he will make will go beyond just one ice abilities. He brings so many elements it will be a treat to have him for the next four years. He believes in the future, he trusts our staff with the development and the school to for his education.”
Czarnecki was impressed with how welcoming the coaching staff was during the recruitment process. “My first impressions were how welcoming the coaches were. They are very easy to talk to and friendly.”
He will be a contributor on both sides of the ice, as a defenseman that can help Oakland in multiple ways. “Everyone can expect a defenseman that can do a little bit of everything.” Czarnecki stated. “I pride myself on having a great stick on the defensive and offensive side of the puck.”
Czarnecki is studying Business at Oakland.
| Oakland ACHA DI Hockey 2025 Recruiting Class | Position |
|---|---|
| Alessandro Nicastro | Forward |
| Ethan Jordan | Goalie |
| Tyler Shinavier | Forward |
| Joe Borro | Defenseman |
| Joe Aiello | Forward |
| Owen Lemieux | Goalie |
| Patrick Czarnecki | Defenseman |
| James Clapp | Forward |
| Luca Cottone | Defenseman |
| Conner Gibson | Forward |
| CJ Panich | Defenseman |
| Antonio Carlisi | Forward |
| Jack Anderson | Forward |
| Jonah Stern | Goalie |
| Connor Carroll | Goalie |
| Cade Keisel | Forward |
| Brody Gibb | Forward |
Graphic By Oakland University Hockey Alum Joseph Guenther