Wednesday, March 09, 2011

Westland's Milam commits to Ferris

The Topeka RoadRunners have announced that forward Nate Milam has committed to Ferris State University for next season.

He’s the second player who competed in last month’s NAHL Top Prospects Tournament to commit to a Division I program after the event.

Milam, a 20-year-old from Westland, has 20 goals and 47 points through 51 games this season.

“Playing in Topeka has been absolutely phenomenal, but, I have to admit, heading back to (Michigan) and playing near friends and family is priceless,” said Milam. “I’m looking forward to wearing the Bulldog, but always representing the RoadRunners.”

For Topeka head coach Scott Langer, seeing Milam commit to Ferris State is particularly gratifying.

“Nate has always been one of those first-on, last-off type of players,” said Langer. “He’s consistently working on his game.

“There's a reason he had 14 goals in his rookie season (of 2009-10) and has followed that up with 47 points and counting. This young man does not stop working."

“Nate’s a threat every shift and has been one of the most determined RoadRunners night in and night out,” Langer added. “Ferris State has made a very good decision on a very solid young man.”

Like his teammates before him with college deals secured, Milam is putting his full attention towards the immediate task at hand: a Robertson Cup championship.

“We’re focusing on staying sharp, sound in mind and in body,” he said. “We believe in one another, and that makes a huge difference.”

Milam also notes his appreciation for his parents, brother, Jody, and sister, Karie, and also his billets in Topeka, Mike and Karen Cline.

“I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by quality people,” he said. “I’m very grateful.“The (RoadRunners) owners (Don and Barb Stone), along with the coaches, have created an amazing culture here. They've proven they truly care about not just winning as a franchise, but the personal success of every player. There's no better place to play juniors."

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