Muskegon's Paeth off to Western Michigan

Des Moines Buccaneers' forward Travis Paeth has verbally committed to Western Michigan University.

Paeth, a native of Muskegon, was a fourth-round draft pick by the Buccaneers in the 2006 USHL Entry Draft. He came to Des Moines after spending last season playing for the Traverse City North Stars of the NAHL.

The 19-year-old Paeth currently has two goals and three assists in seven games for the Buccaneers and has helped the team to get off to a 7-1 start in its first eight games.

"Travis has come in and worked hard for our club," said Des Moines coach-GM Regg Simon. "He's filled a role for our team and now he'll be a great fit for the Western Michigan program."

Paeth is the eleventh member of the Buccaneers to commit to a Division I hockey program this season. Previously committed players to Michigan schools are Jeff Petry (Farmington Hills/Michigan State), Aaron Palushaj (Northville/Michigan), Ben Ryan (Brighton/Notre Dame) and Austin Handley (Clarkston/Michigan State).