The Blackfalds Bulldogs are proud to announce the commitment of James Johnson to play NCAA Division One hockey at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell).
Johnson was signed in February of 2024 after spending the majority of the past two seasons with the Toronto Patriots of the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL). In 17 regular season games with the Bulldogs, Johnson had 10 assists. He had 1 assist in 4 playoff games as well.
Johnson was thrilled with the commitment, “It’s an honour and truly a surreal feeling to commit to UMass Lowell. I’ve dreamed of playing Division 1 hockey since I was a kid and I can’t thank them enough for believing in me. Choosing UMass Lowell was an easy decision, they stood out with professionalism throughout the recruiting process and I’m very comfortable with all of the staff. The school, staff, facilities and community are amazing. I’m stoked to be a River Hawk!
Bulldogs Head Coach Doug Quinn said, “James Johnson joined our team later in the year and made an immediate impact. He is a very strong defenseman who has great size, skating ability and has a long stick. James played in all situations and was a key member of our defensive core.”
Quinn continued, “James is very well respected by his teammates and was a leader both on and off the ice. He is just starting to realize his potential and will be a big part of UMass Lowell down the road.”
Johnson spoke highly of his time in Blackfalds so far, “Joining the Bulldogs and the Blackfalds community has been absolutely phenomenal! We are all bought in and love showing up to the rink everyday. All of our staff and coaches are amazing and we can’t thank them enough for all they do for us. I’m looking forward to next season with the Bulldogs and the town of Blackfalds!”
Bulldogs Director of Hockey Operations, Al Parada, says River Hawk fans should be excited by the commitment, “UMass Lowell supporters should be excited about the character player they are getting who I believe will be a top defender in NCAA D1 Hockey. I look forward to watching James grow as a player next season with the Bulldogs to get ready for the next chapter in his hockey career with UMass Lowell.”
Parada added, “UMass Lowell has a great program and they are getting a player who will be able to make an impact when he goes into school his Freshman season in 25/26.”
“I’d like to thank my family, friends, teammates, coaches and billets for all the continued guidance. As well as the Blackfalds community and fans for all of the support” stated Johnson.
The entire Bulldogs organization would like to congratulate James and his family on his commitment and wish him the best of luck at UMass Lowell!
