The Blackfalds Bulldogs are proud to announce the commitment of Alexander Dimitriadis to play NCAA Division One hockey at Mercyhurst University.
Dimitriadis, 19, came to the Bulldogs in the summer of 2023 from the Pickering Panthers of the OJHL. Dimitriadis split the 2022-23 season between North York and Pickering, totaling 44 points in 49 games. Through 15 games so far in the AJHL this season, Dimitriadis has tallied 17 points, including a seven-game point streak in which he scored 10 points.
Dimitriadis caught the attention of Mercyhurst University early last year, with Dimitriadis saying he and the team’s staff had built a strong relationship dating back to before he started the 2022-23 season with North York.
Following his strong start in the AJHL, Dimitriadis says Mercyhurst’s interest led to an offer, which he says he was happy to accept.
“I am honoured and excited to be committed to Mercyhurst and can’t wait for the future,” said Dimitriadis. “Playing college hockey at the Division 1 level has always been a goal… This is what I have been working towards for a long time, so for it to finally happen is surreal.”
Bulldogs Head Coach Doug Quinn said that Dimitriadis has far exceeded his expectations so far.
“Alexander has been even better than we could have hoped,” said Head Coach Quinn. “Once he adjusted to the league, his game has moved to another level.”
Bulldogs Director of Hockey Operations Al Parada not only commended Dimitriadis’ pedigree on the ice but his positive impact off-ice.
“Alexander is not only a great player who plays with speed, has good puck skills, and is good defensively, but he is also a good person who is great in the dressing room and liked by all his teammates. Mercyhurst is getting an exciting player to watch and an even better person off the ice,” said Parada.
Head Coach Quinn echoed Parada’s sentiment, saying “Alexander has been a great teammate and a very coachable player since joining the Bulldogs.”
Dimitriadis’ line with Eddie Moskowitz and Hunter Brown has been red-hot, combining for 43 points over the last 10 games. Dimitriadis gave his linemates credit, saying, “They are incredible hockey players and great individuals on and off the ice.”
Along with thanking Brown and Moskowitz, Dimitriadis went on to thank his family, coaches, teammates, trainers, friends, advisor, and the Bulldogs organization for supporting him through the whole process.
Dimitriadis becomes the first Bulldog to earn an NCAA commitment during the 2023-24 season and becomes the tenth player on the current Bulldogs roster with an NCAA division one spot.
The entire Bulldogs organization would like to congratulate Alexander and his family on his commitment and wish him the best of luck at Mercyhurst!
Photo Credit: Xander Holcomb, Blackfalds Bulldogs