NEWS

Wellington Dukes forward Abbott Girduckis (photo credit - Ed McPherson/OJHL Images) has confirmed his commitment to join the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Tigers beginning with the 2015-16 Atlantic Hockey season.

The Belleville, Ontario native joined the Dukes as a 17-year old in 2012-13 after spending one season with the Junior 'C' Picton Pirates the previous season where he was named the EBJCHL Rookie of the Year.  The rookie had a successful OJHL debut, notching 12 goals and 19 points in 53 regular season contests, earning a spot on the OJHL Prospects Team that competed at the 2012 Central Canada Cup All-Star Challenge that was held in Wellington, recording one goal and one assist in a victory over the CCHL Prospects.

Last season Girduckis was one of the Dukes offensive leaders, improving to 14 goals and 34 points in 52 games played, finishing sixth in scoring on the club.  After a second consecutive first round exit from the post-season, Girduckis notched two points as the 2014 Dudley-Hewitt Cup host fell in the championship game to the OJHL champion Toronto Lakeshore Patriots.

Thus far this season Girduckis is on pace for career-highs in all offensive categories and sits tied for the team lead in points with 15 in 11 games played on the strength of 9 goals.

Congratulations to Abbott and best of luck in his final OJHL season!