Reed Gregory Pre Draft Combine Alumni now adds his name to the ranks of those that are NCAA players.
Gregory attended the Pre Draft Combine in 2012 and again in 2015. Each time multiple opportunities came his way, and he ended up with options for the upcoming season.
After finishing the 2014-2015 season in the NOJHL, Gregory wanted to try something new. After spending time in the NAHL and finding he missed the style of play in the NOJHL, a move back was made. As it turned out, it was the right move to make.
“I had spoke to Coach Bragagnolo a lot over the years. I first met him at the Combine four years ago, and this year we were able to make it happen that I could play for him.” Said Gregory “The Soo is a great hockey town. The billeting situation was great, and the whole atmosphere around the team was great. Everywhere I went, people knew who I was because they follow the team so closely. It was definitely the right place for me”
Having a breakout year certainly didn’t hurt Gregory either. With several NCAA opportunities on the table, Gregory chose the Lawrence University Vikings not only for the hockey, but for the academics.
“Its a highly rated academic program. In the end, that’s what’s most important.” Continued Gregory “My trip to the NCAA had a lot of twists and turns in it, and I really enjoyed the journey. Its not about how you get to your destination, all that matters is that you get there.”
I began scouting Reed Gregory five years ago. A tireless skater with shockingly explosive speed, all he needed was an opportunity to play with other skilled forwards. Until his arrival in the Soo, Reed was used as a role player because he is such a strong checking forward. Bruno knew he could be more and giving him the right opportunity paid off.
Reed is the younger brother of Justin Gregory, another NOJHL alumni playing NCAA hockey. A third Gregory boy in Lane may not be far behind.
Education lasts a lifetime, and hockey will not. These are the first words I spoke to him. Reed made the right decision for him, for his life after hockey.
Joseph Kolodziej – Publisher
