Brad McClure has something to be thankful for.
The Penticton Vees rookie is the latest player on the team to secure a college scholarship. The team released a statement on Thanksgiving Day that McClure had accepted a scholarship to attend Ferris State University in 2014-15.
Vees coach-GM Fred Harbinson said McClure has a high ceiling.
“We are fortunate to be able to develop Brad for the next two seasons for a great program in Ferris State,” said Harbinson. “Brad has a dynamic skill set and prolific track record of producing offensively. Ferris is getting a quality player and individual.”
McClure has four goals and five points in 10 games. Prior to joining the Vees, the 19-year-old spent the past three seasons playing for his hometown Stratford Cullitons of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League. McClure led the Cullitons in scoring with 78 points in 51 games, including finishing second in league goal-scoring with 45 tallies. In 144 career games in the GOJHL, McClure amassed 95 goals and 162 points.
The Bulldogs play in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) and are based out of Big Rapids, Michigan. Alumni to play for the Bulldogs include Travis Ouellette, who is entering his senior season, and John DePourcq who is in the Ferris State Hall of Fame. The Vees now have 11 players on their roster with college commitments. Wade Murphy, Sam Mellor, Michael Rebry and now McClure have secured scholarships since the season started.