San Diego native and Bloomington Thunder captain Jake Slaker announced recently that he will play for the University of Michigan (Big Ten) for the 2016-17 season.

“The opportunity there is great for me to step in and try to make an impact right away,” said Slaker. “I think overall it is just going to be the perfect place. The history speaks for itself. It’s a great program with a great coaching staff who played for Michigan, so they know what it takes to get players to the next level.”

In his youth days in California, Slaker played for the L.A. Hockey Club, SDIA, San Diego Saints and UTC.

Last season, he put up a career high 42 points (21 goals, 21 assists) and finished the year as the Thunder’s top defensive forward.