By Joshua Boyd / USPHLPremier.com
Eddie Gustin is always interested in trying new things and taking in new experiences.
A two-year USPHL Premier veteran, he signed on with a whole new team this year in the Jersey Hitmen, an organization that has enjoyed immense success at several different USPHL levels from youth and Midget up to their NCDC team, a five-time regular season and two-time playoff champion in the first six years of the NCDC.
Gustin has been a fantastic addition at forward for the Hitmen, posting 25 points in 32 games this year. Along with his point output with the Steele County Blades last year, he now has 48 points in 75 career games.
Now, he’s on to another whole new experience for 2024-25 – NCAA hockey with a brand new program for next season, Misericordia University, of Dallas, Pa. It’ll be in-state tuition for Gustin, a native of Downington, near Philadelphia, but still a change of scenery two hours away from his home.
“I first started talking to Misericordia university through my advisors Brad Barone and Brian Bell, who previously knew coach Kevin Coke,” said Gustin. “What first interested me about Misericordia’s hockey team was that they are a new and exciting NCAA Division III program, where I look to contribute all I can my freshman year. What interested me on the academics side was that they have a strong business program, which is what I plan to major in. I have not been able to visit the campus yet but plan to shortly after the season ends.”
He has a lot of good things to say about his first year with the Hitmen, who play out of the Ice Vault in Wayne, N.J.
“I really love the Jersey Hitmen program. They have treated me very well so far this year,” said Gustin. “I decided to sign there this season because they have an outstanding track record of moving players on to the next level.”
He has been able to experience two very different parts of the USPHL, from Minnesota to the East Coast, and has been happy to remain within the world’s largest junior league en route to his college commitment.
“The USPHL Premier is a very good league and both years I have played have really helped me condition my game and become a better player,” he said.
Of course, the strive towards improvement never ends for a true athlete, and Gustin will not only be continuing to work on his game the rest of this final junior season for him, but also through the off-season. As aforementioned, he wants to be an impact player from the hop at Misericordia.
“I’m ultimately just striving to become a complete player all around in my game, and basically work on everything this off-season,” Gustin added.
The USPHL congratulates Eddie Gustin, his family, the Jersey Hitmen and Misericordia University for his commitment.
