By Warren Kozireski–
Victor, NY native David Farrance waited longer than some thought he would have to, but was ultimately happy with his selection by Western Conference champ Nashville late in the third round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft in Chicago.
“It feels great; I’m just trying to soak it all in right now,” Farrance said in the media interview area after being selected. “Words really can’t describe it. I know (Predators Director of Player Development) Scot Nichol, who is also from Rochester—I skate with his kids a couple of times, so it’s a pretty special feeling to be a part of this organization.
The 5’11”, 195 lb. offensive defenseman had played the last two seasons with the U.S. National Development Program where he helped the Blue Devils win the Class BB state championship in 2015. He also split his two years at Victor with playing in the USPHL with the Syracuse Stars.
“(Playing with the USNDTP) has helped me mature a lot as a person and as a player. There’s a couple of situations you’re put in there where you have to be a mature adult and do the right thing and as a player they push you pretty hard.”
The Boston University commit had two goals and an assist over seven games in the World Junior U-18 tournament this past season and 46 assists over 89 games combined with the Development Program’s USHL schedule and games against other teams.
“It is a relief—it’s good to know where you’re going to end up and good to know where the next stage of your life is going to end up so I’m pretty excited.
“It’s tough waiting there for your name to be called. You hope you go as soon as you can, but wherever you go, you’re lucky to be there.”
