By Grace Mello / USPHLPremier.com
Growing up and playing in Wisconsin for a majority of his career is what has helped land Jacob Jakusz a spot on the Lawrence University team. Over the past three years, Jakusz has played on two teams in the USPHL Midwest West Division and also spent some time in the NCDC and SJHL.
This is where Lawrence University head coach, Brett Wall, got to see him in action. During the 2020-2021 and 2021-2021 seasons, Jakusz played for the Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings and Wall coached for the Hudson Havoc.
“I started talking with the coaches at Lawrence University in July of 2022. Coach Wall expressed his interest and he stated that he liked my style,” said Jakusz. “He told me that he was very familiar with my game because he coached against me for two years and trusts that I can come into Lawrence with him and change the culture.”
Jakusz, an ‘02 from Weston, Wis., finished top 10 in points for the Havoc during regular season play with 31 (12 goals, 19 assists). He also was one of two lead scoring defensemen for the Havoc.
“I love it here in Hudson. The program is well run and my teammates and I have really bought in to do big things this year both individually and as a team,” Jakusz said. “I love how in Hudson we have system days as well as skill days. I also love practicing against great players everyday.
“We also talk a lot about playing passionately and keeping a positive attitude. Not only has this helped my skill but it has also helped me mentally,” Jakusz added.
Jakusz will be a key component in the up and coming Lawrence program. Coach Wall is looking to rebuild not only the game at Lawrence but the culture of the program. The choice for Jakusz was easy as he sees the potential the University and program have for him. He will be pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Business.
“I love how serious the players take their education at Lawrence. They have a great program for promoting their students for great internships that I am excited about,” Jakusz said. “I love how it’s a small campus therefore you have smaller classes. This allows you to have better relationships with your colleagues and professors.”
While he has finished up his time with the Havoc, closing his career at the Nationals, and prepares to join the NCAA Division III program, Jakusz says he will be focusing in on his stick and skating skills during the off-season.
“I’m going to continue to work on playing faster while being able to make plays happen.”
The USPHL congratulates Jacob Jakusz, his family, the Hudson Havoc and Lawrence University for his commitment.
