Niagara University ACHA Hockey is happy to announce the commitment of three players from the Lockport Express of the NA3HL. Pavel Kovtunov, Sam Fitzpatrick, and Gibson Stuart will all be joining the NU roster next season, and mark a continued relationship with Lockport, bringing the number of former Express players up to 5.
Sam Fitzpatrick (G)
Wildwood, NJ
5’10/180
Thoughts from Recruiter Nate Miller:
Fitzy is a goaltender that came across our radar last season, since he was already planning on attending Niagara. We didn’t have any space on the roster this year for a goaltender, and he made the decision to go back and play for Lockport this year after playing 8 games last year. Fitzy is a goaltender that can hold teams in games. He has a save percentage of .911 and a GAA of 4.22, and he’s seeing 40 or 50 shots a night. His technique is solid, and he doesn’t let stuff get in his head, which is really important in a goaltender. Above all, Fitzy is an excellent student and teammate, and the NU ACHA team will be lucky to have him in the locker room for four years.
Pavel Kovtunov (F/D)
Youngstown, NY
6’1/205
Thoughts from Recruiter Nate Miller:
If there was a trophy for longest time recruited, Pash would definitely win it. He is a solid two-way player who can control the tempo of the game and is very vocal on the ice. He has a great sense of humor, brings a lot to the locker room chemistry, and is an absolute punisher on the ice. Pash can play forward or defense, and is the type of player who will make very few mistakes. His strong defensive game and hard shot from the point make him an asset to any special teams situation. We’re happy to finally have him on board, after almost two years of trying to get him!
Gibson Stuart (D)
Jamestown, NY
6’0/200
Thoughts from Recruiter Nate Miller:
Like Pash, Gibby Stuart is a player who has been on the radar at NU for a little bit of time. Gibby has been a prominent leader in the Express locker room, and has served as a captain for the team. He also has the franchise record for most games played (116), showing his commitment and dedication to his team. Gibby is a stay-at-home defenseman who is not afraid to get involved in protection of his goaltender. He is calm and even-tempered with or without the puck, and has a quiet confidence that earns the respect of teammates, coaches, officials, and even opponents.
