San Jose native Dalton Garcia has committed to attend and play NCAA Division III hockey next season for Fredonia State University (SUNYAC).

Garcia, who played youth hockey for the Golden State Elite and Anaheim Jr. Ducks, is playing this season for the EHL’s Walpole Express.

“I felt Fredonia was the right fit for me because of the hockey atmosphere,” Garcia said. “They also had a major that I am extremely interested in.”

Express coach Cody Campbell said Dalton’s presence up front has pushed the team to be even better.

“Dalton has made an impact on our group in the short time he’s been here,” said Campbell. “He has raised the compete level of his teammates and has increased our overall team speed and skill set. We are thrilled to have played a small part in helping Dalton reach his goal of playing college hockey.”

“Playing for the Express has been a great experience so far,” added Garcia. “They were very welcoming when I arrived a couple weeks ago and made it very easy to feel at home in such a short time.”

(Jan. 25, 2021)