Oakland Hockey general manager Corey Hagood is pleased to announce that defenseman Hudson Hinich has committed to Oakland. Hinich comes to Oakland from the Hampton Roads Whalers (USPHL Elite) where he served as an alternate captain this past season.
“My overall thoughts on committing Oakland are all positive.” Hinich stated. “Since I met the coaching staff I’ve felt so welcomed. Also, the campus looks like something straight out of a movie.”
Hinich played 62 games for the Whalers Elite team scoring 12 goals and 23 assists. He also played 17 games for the Hampton USPHL Premier team recording three assists. “I made the decision to play hockey at Oakland for many reasons, one being the jerseys are beautiful, the coaches, and the players made me feel like family when I came to visit.” Hinich said. “It felt like I had already met them and in a way it felt like the universe brought me to Oakland for a reason!”
Assistant coach Greg Meuser is looking forward to having Hinich on the ice this upcoming season. “We are excited to have Hudson join our D-core.” Meuser stated. “He brings a lot of intensity, strength, and leadership qualities to the team, on and off the ice.”
“He plays with confidence and that will make the transition from juniors to the ACHA easy for Hudson.” Meuser added.
Hinich says he likes to be an offensive defenseman to help his team make plays. “I am an offensive defenseman who loves to get up into the rush and use my speed to dictate the play.”
“Last season I lead my team in points by quarterbacking our powerplay, so if I get the opportunity to be on the powerplay this year, I’m going to use my experience to make plays and move the puck up-tempo.” Hinich added.
“My first impression of coaching staff was how passionate they are about the Golden Grizzlies.” Hinich said. “I feel this way, because from the start they’ve been so excited about bringing me in, which is something you don’t see from coaches nowadays.”
While at Oakland, Hinich will be studying business and the social sciences with the goal to graduate with two degrees.
Graphic By OU Hockey Alum Joseph Guenther