Spartans sign Tim Crowder to NLI

Michigan State hockey coach Rick Comley has signed Tim Crowder to a National Letter of Intent for the 2005-06 season.

Crowder joins six other players - forwards Justin Abdelkader, Tim Kennedy and Nick Sucharski; defensemen Brandon Gentile and Ryan Turek; and goaltender Jeff Lerg who signed NLI's during the early signing period.

"Tim is the final piece of this year's recruiting class," said Comley. "He is a pro-type player, who brings size and strength and has shown the ability to score goals. He will definitely compliment our forwards."

Tim Crowder, F, 6-2, 180, Shoots: R; Birthday: Oct. 16, 1986; Victoria, B.C./South Surrey Eagles (BCHL)

Has played in the British Columbia Hockey League for three years ... Began the 2004-05 season with the Victoria Salsa, before being traded to the South Surrey Eagles at the trade deadline ... In 56 regular-season games, compiled 23 goals and 27 assists for 50 points ... Recorded seven power-play markers among his 23 goals ... Also tallied 30 penalty minutes ... In 16 playoff games, has three goals and 12 assists for 15 points to rank tied for seventh among BCHL playoff scoring leaders ... Spent the 2002-03 and 2003-04 seasons with Powell River Kings ... Posted 21 goals and 34 assists for 55 points in 57 games in 2003-04 ... Recorded six goals and six assists for 12 points in 52 games in 2002-03 ... Prior to Powell River, played for Victoria Racquet Club (Bantam AAA) from 2000-02.