By Joshua Boyd / USPHLPremier.com
Nick Foster is excited to become part of a strong tradition of excellence at Norwich University, as the former Springfield Pic (2020-22) is headed to that NCAA Division III institution in the 2023-24 season.
The 2002-born defenseman from Amherst, Mass., put up 31 points in 74 games in two USPHL Premier seasons, before playing this past season in the Central Canada Hockey League.
“I spoke to Norwich in early March, before our playoff run. They liked my size [6-feet-2-inches, 201 pounds], defensive play and decision-making ability,” said Foster. “Norwich is one of the top Division III schools in the country. They have strong alumni support, it is a small college, and their majors were appealing to me.”
Foster is planning to major in Criminal Justice with an eye towards a career in cybersecurity. He is headed to the nation’s oldest private military institution, originally founded in 1819, and one that has a very proud hockey history. A team representing Norwich first hit the ice in 1925, and since 1996, the team has qualified for the NCAA tournament 19 times out of those 27 years. The Cadets won the national title in 2000, 2003, 2010 and 2017.
“I have always wanted to play for Norwich. I loved the campus and the rink is amazing. When the opportunity to play for Norwich became a reality, it was a very easy decision for me,” said Foster.
Foster had played high school hockey for his local Amherst-Pelham Regional H.S., when he decided to keep it somewhat local by going a few miles down I-91 to play for the Pics.
“The Springfield Pics are a strong development program. The coaches and staff prepared me for the challenges ahead. They are supportive and they stay in contact with myself and graduated players throughout our hockey journeys. I consider all of them family,” said Foster. “They have the tools, experience and knowledge to address both strengths and weaknesses.Communication amongst the coaches and staff was outstanding.”
He also felt the Tier III USPHL Premier Division played a huge part in helping him to attract Tier II attention for the past 2022-23 season.
“It is definitely a process. If you listen to the coaches and are dedicated to your craft, doors will open. The Pics and USPHL were the keys to my development. Making the transfer to the CCHL easier for me because of the league’s competitiveness,” said Foster.
Foster is preparing for a busy off-season to try and work himself into a key role at Norwich from the outset.
“I will be working on getting quicker in all aspects and adding more size to my body,” he said. “My goal is to help the Norwich University hockey team win a National Championship. That will be my donation to giving back to the school, the fans, and the alumni.”
The USPHL congratulates Nick Foster, his family, the Springfield Pics and Norwich University for his commitment.
