NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX – Defenseman Jimmy Anderson and forward Anthony Koslow have committed to Dakota College at Bottineau in North Dakota for the upcoming season. Dakota College is a two-year institution that is a member of the NJCAA and has a storied hockey tradition throughout the years, including several National Championships to its credit.
Both players were key members of the Texas Brahmas this past season and are excited to be taking this next step in their careers both academically as well as athletically. “I think they are going to find that school a great fit for themselves in all facets. The two of them are pretty close friends, so it will make it an easier transition for them up there when they can do it together," Head Coach Al Rooney said.
Anderson (5’10”, 175) is a mobile defenseman who tallied three goals and six assists this past season, finishing with a +7 rating in 43 games for the Brahmas. “Jimmy can play at both ends of the arena, and has a good mix of speed and physical play that will translate to the next level nicely,” added Rooney. “I think a smaller school is really going to be where he can find a comfort level that will allow him to succeed on and off the ice." Anderson finished his four year Brahmas career as the all-time leader in games played (148).
Koslow (5’11, 185) was a producer up front for the Brahmas all season, scoring 13 times and adding 17 assists for 30 points in 43 games. “Koslow was a tough, hard-nosed player for us who went to the dirty areas of the ice to help us offensively,” Rooney said. “He plays a pretty fearless game and is a real even keeled type of player who I think will really be able to help Bottineau in all three zones.”
It was at the NA3HL Showcase in Blaine, MN where both players first appeared on the radar for Dakota College Coach Travis Rybchinski. “We saw them play in the Showcase and followed them from there through the playoffs, and were not disappointed in them. They are going to step in and contribute and I think it will be a good fit for them on the ice and in the classroom.”
That excites Brahmas Head Coach Al Rooney, as it leaves no doubt of the impact that events like the NA3HL Showcase can have for players and the teams involved, both on the ice and in the stands scouting. “This is what it’s all about for our league, developing players to give them the tools to make that step into the NAHL or into the college of their choice. I’m real excited for both of these guys, and anxious to follow their progress next season from afar.”