Recruiting: Cooper Zech commits to Ferris State

By @MichaelCaples –

The Bulldogs have locked up another in-state defenseman.

Today, the NAHL announced that Odessa Jackalopes defenseman Cooper Zech, a South Lyon native, has committed to Ferris State.

The 17-year-old blueliner, a product of the Victory Honda AAA organization, was originally committed to Alaska Fairbanks, but now, he plans on being a member of the Bulldogs starting in the 2018-19 season.

“Ferris State University is the perfect fit for me,” Zech told MiHockey. “It is a good sized school offering majors that I am interested in, the hockey team is always good.”

Despite being the youngest defenseman on the Jackalopes’ roster, Zech has been one of their most consistent blueliners, posting four goals and 12 assists through 32 games, along with a +1 rating and 64 penalty minutes.

“Cooper plays beyond his years, he’s such a smart player for his young age and were proud of him for making this decision, he deserves it,” said Jacks head coach Greg Gatto in a release.

Having the opportunity to play in his home state was something Zech couldn’t pass up.

“…I get to stay close to home so my parents can watch me play. Playing college hockey in Michigan is a dream come true.”