The Nanaimo Clippers take great pride in ensuring that their graduating players are able to move on to the next level, namely college hockey after they age out of junior hockey. On that basis, we are pleased to announce that Andrew Noel will be moving on to Ferris State for the 2022-2023 season.
Noel was a big part of the defensive core that allowed the Nanaimo Clippers to real off 12 straight playoff victories. Sweeping the Surrey Eagles, Chilliwack Chiefs and the Langley Rivermen, before losing in the league finals to the Penticton Vees. Noel is a 6-ft 1-in, 190-pound defenceman who was born in Maynard Massachusetts. He came to the Clippers for the start of the 2021-2022 season after being acquired from the Maine Nordiques of the NAHL.
Noel led all defencemen on the Clippers in playoff scoring with 6 assists in 16 games. He was third in defencemen scoring in the regular season with 7 goals and 10 assists in 51 games.
Colin Birkas, Head Coach and GM of the Clippers, provided the following on Noel, “Andrew is a big-bodied player who moves very well. He has a great one-timer that we utilized on the power play throughout the season. He also was tough as nails so he made our D zone that much harder to play in. Andrew will be a great addition to Ferris State as he is an old school D man that will shut down the opposing team’s best players while defending the net with vigour.“
Wes Mussio, owner of the Clippers, added; “Our scouting down south last year, when many other BCHL couldn’t travel, allowed us to pick up some gems like Noel. He was everything we imagined this year adding leadership while adding D zone toughness and a booming shot from the point. I have watched enough NCAA games over the last few years to see he will fit in nicely, likely coming out the other end with a minor-Pro contract to start. I am happy to see Andrew get his commitment. “
