The South Muskoka Shield are pleased to announce the college committments of four Shield alumni. Over the past three years, the South Muskoka Shield and it's players have come a long, long way and now we are beginning to see some rewards. These four are the first group of former Shield players to succesfully obtain college scholarships and we would like to congratulate them on all thier hard work that has gotten them to where they are today.

Eric Pye has committed to Salem State College (ECAC East) in Salem, Massachussetts. Eric spent the past two seasons with the Shield and went 25-1-2 posting a 2.95 goals against average last year in the regular season. There is no doubt Eric played a huge role in the Shield's record setting 38 win season and Russell Cup Championship.

Derek Rodgers has committed to Finlandia University (MCHA) in Hancock, Michigan. The Alta Loma, California native has also spent the past two seasons with the Shield. Rodgers recorded 22 points (7g, 15a) in 26 games in his first season as a Shield after being acquired in a trade from the now defunct Douro Dukes. Last year he upped those numbers to 39 points (17g, 22a) in 42 regular season games and also added 8 points (6g, 2a) in 17 playoff games.

Nick Leigh has committed to play for SUNY-Potsdam (SUNYAC) in Potsdam, New York. Nick has spent part of 3 season with the Shield. In 2007-08 Nick recorded 47 points (26g, 21a) in 26 games for the Shield while also recording an incredible 160 penalty minutes. Last season he played for the Atlanta Knights of the Metropolitan Junior Hockey League. Nick also returned to the Shield for game 6 of the Russell Cup Finals against Deseronto where he recorded 4 points (2g, 2a) in the final and deciding game.

Lastly, Dustin Curran has committed to play for the OUIT Ridgebacks (CIS) in Oshawa, Ontario. Dustin was a member of the very first Shield team in 2006-07. He has spent the last two seasons playing for the Bowmanville Eagles of the OJHL. Last season he recorded 36 points (16g, 20a) for the Eagles and finished second in team scoring.

The South Muskoka Shield are entering their fourth season in the Greater Metro Hockey League and are looking to repeat as Russell Cup Champions in 2009-10. The Shield start their season on September 11th versus the always challenging Innisfil Lakers. The Shield will also be raising their Russell Cup Championship banner before the game. Don't miss out on this sure to be great night Shield fans!