The Minnesota Moose, of the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL) are please to announce, defenseman Jake Peterson, has committed to play, NCAA D3 hockey for the University of St. Thomas, in the MIAC.

This will be the 7th NCAA D3 commitment for the Minnesota Moose since their inception in 2017.

Peterson will join St Thomas for the 2019-2020 season.  St. Thomas went 14-7-5 in their 2018-2019 season, earning the no. 3 seed in the MIAC playoff tournament.  St. Thomas eventually conceded in the semi-finals to St. Johns.

“I choose St. Thomas for the overall feel of everything,” Peterson said. “That includes the academics, feel of the campus, the coaching staff and of course the hockey team.”

Peterson has played for the Moose over the course of 2 seasons.  Jake Joined the Moose after a stint with the Austin Bruin, in the North American Hockey League (NAHL).  He played 29 games for the Moose in the 2017-2018 inaugural season, scoring 6 goals and 18 assists. Jake was a big part of the payoff run, which ended with the team losing in the National Semi Finals.

In 2018-2019, Jake played with the NAHL, Chippewa Steel and played 13 games before rejoining his Moose teammates for the final stretch of the 2018-2019 regular season, playing in 11 games, putting up 7 goals and 11 assists.

“We are thrilled to have Jake commit to one of the top programs in the MIAC.  Jake had plenty of options to continue his hockey career, but felt most comfortable with the academics and program St. Thomas has to offer, “ said Coach Mendenhall.

Peterson was quick to point out that playing for the Moose was a great decision for his development and future:

“I love Minnesota and wouldn’t want to finish my junior hockey career anywhere else.  The trustworthy coaches made the difference for me in helping me achieve my goals,” stated Peterson.

“I want to thank my Dad first.  My father has spent countless hours driving and coaching me and none of this would have been possible without him.  The journey we have been on together has been a special one. Ever since I was 3 years old, he has been pushing me to my potential.  Secondly, I would like to thank my mom for her unwavering support through it all. She never forced me to play. She wanted me to be happy.”

Everyone in the Moose organization is very excited for Jake and what his future holds.  St. Thomas is getting a great person, on and off the ice. Jake will be a wonderful addition to the St. Thomas organization.  Thank you for your time here, wearing the Moose jersey.

Stay tuned this off-season for more updates on alumni, player signings and commitments! #rollmoose