Payne decides on Northern Michigan

The Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings have announced that forward Robbie Payne has committed to play college hockey at Northern Michigan University.

 Payne, a 19-year-old forward from Gaylord, has been a huge asset to the success of the Kalamazoo scoring attack. After starting in the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League with the Soo Eagles, Payne had a breakout rookie campaign in the NAHL in 2011-12.

Last season, he was able to tally 26 goals and 29 assists for 55 points, which was good enough for second on the team. He also led the team with nine power-play goals.

In a game against the Jamestown Ironmen, Payne set a league-high with seven points in one contest (three goals, four assists).

“Robbie is certainly known as a tremendously gifted offensive player, but we also know that he is reliable in all situations,” said Kalamazoo head coach Marc Fakler. “Northern Michigan is not only getting a hard-working and talented young hockey player, but a quality young man. Northern Michigan has a tradition-rich program led by one of the most respected coaches in college hockey in Walt Kyle."

Also in 2011-12, Payne was named to the NAHL Top Prospects North Division team and was also recognized by the league as the Combat Hockey Player of the Month in October.

Already this season, Payne was named the North Division’s Combat Hockey Player of the Week after he scored five goals in four games during the NAHL Showcase to start the season.

Through six games this season, Payne has seven points, six of which are goals.