Yet another player from this year’s Merritt Centennials’ team has accepted an offer to play hockey at the university/college level.

Twenty-year-old defenseman Bill Marshall has committed to Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta beginning in September, 2012.

Marshall’s decision to join the Mount Royal Cougar’s hockey program brings to six the number of Centennials from the 2011-2012 team that have signed letters of intent to play hockey at the post-secondary level. The others are Reece Willcox (Cornell), Brandon Pfeil (Brown), Evan Stack (UMass-Amherst), Chad Brears (U of Alabama-Huntsville) and Dylan Chanter (U of New Hampshire, 2014).

Reached at his home in Smithers where he is working at a mill for the summer, Marshall stated, “There were a few schools that were interested [in me]. I just wanted to take my time and make sure that I made the right decision. Mount Royal just seemed to be the best fit in terms of playing hockey and continuing my education.”

One of the things that attracted Marshall to Mount Royal was the fact that the school’s athletic teams are joining the CIS (Canadian Intercollegiate Sports) for the first time this coming year.

The Cougars will compete against the likes of the University of Calgary, the University of Alberta, UBC, and the University of Saskatchewan – all perennial powerhouses in Canadian college hockey.

Marshall played for two years with the Merritt Centennials following two seasons with the Princeton Posse.

Last year, as an assistant captain on the team, Marshall played all 60 Cents’ regular season games, scoring 12 goals and adding 22 assists for 34 points.

“We are extremely proud of Bill and his decision to attend Mount Royal University,” stated Cents’ head coach and GM Luke Pierce in a June 16 press release. “Over the past two seasons, Bill established himself as the cornerstone and leader of our defence corps. His game improved more than anyone I’ve ever coached, which is a testament to his hard work and dedication.”

Pierce went on to add, “I have no doubt that if Bill chooses, he will play pro hockey sometime in the future. His game will continue to improve at the CIS level, and I’m confident that he’ll become a premier defenceman in that tremendous league.

“We thank Bill for the impression that he has left on our entire organization, and wish him all the best in his academic and athletic future.”

Marshall will join a Cougar’s team in September that is stocked full of former Junior A players – from the BCHL, the AJHL and points beyond. The roster includes two former Merritt Centennials from the 2007-8 season (Ryan Moir and Jordon Harrison) as well as Eric Galbraith (Salmon Arm 2007-8, Quesnel 2008-9) and Prince George Spruce Kings’ Muchalla brothers, Vinny (2004-7) and Sam (2007-10).

Marshall’s strongest connection to the Mount Royal team, however, is former Langley Chief Brad Goss (2007-10) who is also from Smithers and has played for the Cougars for the past two seasons.

“Brad’s a couple of years older than me, but I’ve played lots of hockey with him, “said Marshall. “I’ve talked to him a lot about Mount Royal.”

Marshall added that he won’t soon forget Merritt – his time spent in the community and wearing the Cents’ uniform.

“I have nothing but fond memories. They were an awesome two years, and I have no regrets.”