Jr. Kings’ Modry to play D-I hockey at RPI
The Los Angeles Jr. Kings have announced that defenseman Jacob Modry, who will play for the organization’s 16U AAA Major team this coming season, has committed to attend and play his NCAA Division I hockey at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) following his junior career.
In 2014-15, the 1999-born Modry patrolled the blue line for the Jr. Kings’ state champion 16U AAA Minor team under the leadership of head coach Igor Nikulin where he totaled two goals and 12 assists in 24 Tier I Elite League regular-season and playoff games.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for Jacob, and one that’s well-deserved,” said Nikulin. “He’s a talented, hard-working defenseman and a dedicated student, which will no doubt translate into a promising career at RPI.”
Earlier this month, the 6-foot-3, 170-pound Modry participated in the prestigious USA Hockey Select 16 Festival, which was showcased in Williamsville, N.Y.
“Jacob has already proven himself as one of the top defensemen in the country in his age group, and we expect his development to continue even further within our program this coming season,” said Jack Bowkus, head coach of the Jr. Kings’ 16U AAA Major team. “RPI is getting a gifted hockey player and an even better young man, and we couldn’t be happier for him and his family.”
Located in Troy, N.Y., RPI competes in the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC). One of the oldest NCAA programs in the country, the Engineers have qualified for the NCAA Tournament nine times during their over-100-year history – most recently in 2011.
Last season, the Engineers, led by head coach Seth Appert, finished with a 20-14-3 overall record (14-7-1 in ECAC play).