BROOKS, AB (March 11, 2022) – The Brooks Bandits of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) are thrilled to announce forward TJ Hughes has committed to the University of Michigan.
Hughes, 20, has completed one of the most prolific seasons in AJHL history, scoring 127 points (66g, 61a) in 60 games during the 2021-22 campaign.
His 66 goals is the most ever scored in a single season by a Bandit, and he was also the fastest to 30 goals, doing so in 31 games. He had the 8th greatest goal scoring season in AJHL history, and is the AJHL’s first 60 + goal scorer since the 1998-99 season. He finished second in AJHL scoring, and is one of three Bandits to score over 100 points this season.
“TJ has been a phenomenal Bandit. He’s progressed each of his three seasons from battling for ice time in our lineup as a rookie to being one of the most prolific scorers in AJHL history,” said Bandits Head Coach and GM, Ryan Papaioannou.
“His path to Michigan was not straight forward but his continual work ethic has allowed him to achieve his goal of playing elite level Division 1 Hockey. TJ had many options to choose from and although a stressful process, he handled it with maturity and composure. We’re excited for TJ’s future and wish him the best next season at Michigan.”
Hughes (Hamilton, ON) had seven hat tricks and 28 powerplay goals, third most in league history. He was named the AJHL’s Top Forward, as well as the Bandits Top All-Around Forward Award and most game stars (15).
Located in Ann Arbor, MI, the Michigan Wolverines compete in the Big Ten conference (NCAA Division I) and are led by Head Coach Mel Pearson.
Hughes is the 16th Bandit on the 2021-22 roster to be committed to an NCAA Division I school, joining:
- Boston Buckberger (Wisconsin)
- Dominick Campione (Arizona State)
- Ethan Lund (Niagara)
- Brendan Poshak (Northern Michigan)
- Ryan McAllister (Western Michigan)
- Noah Hackett (Niagara)
- Aiden Fink (Wisconsin)
- Brendan Kennette (Sacred Heart)
- Anthony Cipollone (Quinnipiac)
- Hunter Wallace (RPI)
- Josh Zinger (Northern Michigan)
- Devin Phillips (Holy Cross)
- Wes Turner (Holy Cross)
- Dario Beljo (AIC)
- Zach Bookman (Merrimack)
The Bandits begin their AJHL Playoffs on Friday, March 18 when they host Game 1 of the South Division Semi-Final. Puck drop is 7:00 pm. Single game tickets and playoff packages are on sale at brooksbandits.ca and the Bandits office at 403-501-0122.