The Blackfalds Bulldogs are proud to announce the commitment of Layne Loomer to play NCAA Division I hockey at Pennsylvania State University (PSU).
Loomer, 18, has been with the Bulldogs since the beginning of the 2022-23 season. As a rookie, Loomer scored 47 points in 55 regular season games. His playoff campaign came to an early end through injury, with Loomer accumulating eight points in eight games played to that point. His strong showing in his first season made him not only the Bulldogs’ Rookie of the Year, but made him a finalist for the league’s Rookie of the Year award, and earned him a spot on the South Division’s All-Rookie team.
“Their great culture and the way they play really intrigued me,” said Loomer, who expressed his excitement to attend Penn State, saying he was interested in playing in the Big Ten conference.
The start of Loomer’s season was stagnated due to injuries, but he’s been heating up of late, with 13 points in his last seven games. His 26 points in 19 games trail just Brendan Ross and Eddie Moskowitz in Bulldogs scoring.
Bulldogs Head Coach Doug Quinn commended Loomer’s resolve, saying for him to accomplish what he has so far in spite of numerous injuries and ailments is something to be proud of.
“Layne’s commitment to the game both on and off ice is very high, he is a very focused and determined individual,” said Quinn. “(He) has dealt with his share of adversity his first two years with the Bulldogs, his early season setbacks had Layne playing catch up but with his incredible work ethic and determination, it didn’t take long for him to be back playing as one of the top players in the league”
Bulldogs Director of Hockey Operations Al Parada echoed that sentiment, saying “Layne’s commitment to being the best he can be has made a big difference in attaining this achievement. It just goes to show how hard work can overcome adversity and help you reach your goals. Layne has proven that so far in his hockey career.”
Loomer went on to say that he’d like to thank his family, friends, coaches and advisor for all their support. While he’s excited for the future, he says his focus remains on the Blackfalds Bulldogs.
“(My) goals for the rest of my junior career are still to win as a team here in Blackfalds and continue to help the team do that,” said Loomer.
Parada says that Loomer’s work ethic not just on, but off the ice served as a big reason for his continued success.
“Having the skill set to be a point per game player in his first two seasons, Layne continues to gain confidence each day and throw in a work ethic that is over the top both on and off the ice, and I believe that is a recipe for success at any level.,” said Parada. “As long as Layne continues to grow as a player, and get stronger, the sky is the limit for him.”
Head Coach Quinn went on to say that PSU is getting a dedicated, hard-working, and highly-skilled two-way forward.
“Penn State is getting a player with a great work ethic and hockey IQ. He has the ability to play both power play and penalty kill and will be a leader on and off ice,” said Quinn. “(He) has amazing determination and drive to be the best player he can be and has had success at every level… he is the type of player every team needs and will be a great fit for Penn State.”
The entire Bulldogs organization would like to congratulate Layne and his family on his commitment and wish him the best of luck at Penn State!
Photo credit: Xander Holcomb, Renegades Photography
