Corey Cunningham has been a local fan favourite in his three seasons thus far with the Spruce Kings.
The Prince George product has made a momentous decision in taking the next step of his hockey career and that’s choosing where he’ll play after graduating Junior ‘A.’
He’s set to join Merrimack College, announcing his commitment to the northeast United States institution today (Sept. 8), part of NCAA Division One’s Hockey East Conference.
Excited and proud to announce my commitment to play college hockey for Merrimack. I’d like to thank my family, teammates and coaches (past and present), and friends who have supported me along the way. Finally, thanks to the Spruce Kings organization and their fans. pic.twitter.com/KUXEvSUOv8
— Corey Cunningham (@coreycuningham) September 8, 2020
Cunningham's freshman season is yet to be determined, but he's still eligible to play two more years of junior hockey.
"We are so excited and proud of Corey," said Spruce Kings Head Coach Alex Evin in a team release.
"He has improved as a player and as a person each of his past three seasons as a Spruce King. It is very rewarding to see our players reach their goals of playing college hockey and getting an opportunity to further their education. We look forward to helping Corey get ready for Merrimack in the future."
The 19-year-old led the Spruce Kings in goals last season with 26 in 53 games, while finishing second on the team with 44.
He compiled six goals and 12 points in 23 postseason games during Prince George’s 2019 run to the Fred Page and Doyle Cups.
"I am very happy for Corey and his family for many reasons. He is a local Prince George kid, he comes from a great family, and he is going into his fourth year as a Spruce King," said Spruce Kings General Manager Mike Hawes.
"Corey understood the process as a young player. He was patient, absorbed as much as he could, and he learned from our coaches and the very good players he was surrounded by. Now he is a veteran leader on our team and is very deserving of this opportunity."
Cunningham could soon join former teammate and fellow BCHL-champion Ben Brar at Merrimack as he just completed his first year of NCAA play.
The Warriors finished 10th in the 11-team conference this past season with a record of 7-14-3.
They has yet to ever win a Hockey East title after losing the championship in 2011, but received an invitation to its fourth Frozen Four national tournament that same year.
Merrimack College is located 40 km north of Boston.
