Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Burlon commits to Michigan for 2008-09

St. Michael’s Buzzers defenseman Brandon Burlon has committed to the University of Michigan for the 2008-2009 season.

Burlon, a 1990 birthdate from Nobleton, Ontario, will be the third Buzzer in the last four years to play for the Wolverines when he steps on the ice at Yost Arena in 2008. Preceding him are Andrew Cogliano and a teammate from the 2006-2007 season, Louie Caporusso.

Rich Ricci, coach and GM of the Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League's Buzzers, sees a lot of upside to Burlon.

"As a smart, mobile defenseman, Burlon is offensively gifted and skates well with excellent puck control," Ricci said. "His excellent leadership skills will be called upon next year for the Buzzers as he will be an integral part of the defensive lineup for St. Mike’s. Next year will be big for Burlon who is being seen as a potential selection in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.”

Michigan was always Burlon’s first choice.

“The education, tradition and quality program is what initially attracted me to U-M,” said Burlon. "But the strength of the incoming class in 2008 and the opportunity for me to be a part of something as special as Michigan was too good to pass up. Great opportunities like this only come around so often.”

Part of that opportunity will be to share the ice with Caporusso, who will start attending Michigan this fall.

“I think Louie and I played well together and being able to extend that chemistry at the next level will be a big plus in my play as a Wolverine," added Burlon.

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