Graduating Melfort Mustangs defenseman Alex Rondeau has made a Directwest commitment to Alaska-Fairbanks of the WCHA (NCAA Division I).
Rondeau, a native of Drummondville PQ, was second on Melfort in scoring last year with 13-goals and 28-assists in 50-games.
It was Rondeau’s second season with the Mustangs but it almost wasn’t meant to be as he was included in a future considerations trade in the Summer of 2019 but head coach coach Trevor Blevins thought highly enough of Rondeau to get him back and make a separate transaction. “Alex will bring a very high compete level to the NCAA. His development over the past two seasons has been nothing short of remarkable. He has size, strength, and skill to become a tough defender at that level for years to come,” says Blevins.
Rondeau admits his mobility is probably his biggest asset and is grateful for the opportunity. “I heard from them near the end of August as they had a spot for a defenseman open up at the last minute.”
Rondeau, a finalist for the league’s defenseman of the year award, says he thoroughly enjoyed his time in the SJHL, specifically Melfort. “This is a hard league to play in because it’s tough physically and also very fast paced. You have to be well prepared because every single game is a match where anyone can beat anyone. The communities are also very appealing to be a part of and I really had fun in Melfort.”
At the moment, the WCHA does not have a return to play start date. With ten teams in five states, WCHA member institutions are currently operating under multiple state, local, university system, institutional and NCAA Covid-19 mandates. Rondeau says the message so far is that perhaps exhibition games could begin in December.
