Bobcat Forward Johnson Commits to Northern Michigan
MARQUETTE, MI – Just over a week before he will report to 2017 Training Camp for the Bismarck Bobcats, returning forward Grant Johnson announced Thursday that he has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at Northern Michigan University starting in the 2019-20 season.
“It’s great to have the decision made and to just be able to focus on the upcoming season,” stated Johnson, who is one of 12 returning skaters from the Bobcats’ 2016-17 campaign.
Following an eye-popping 85-point season en route to a North Dakota state title with Grand Forks Central High School, Johnson joined the Cats in March—scoring a goal in his first NAHL game on March 4 on his way to seven points in 11 appearances in black and gold.
“Our whole organization is thrilled for this opportunity for Grant, as we know first-hand how hard he has worked for it,” effused Bobcats head coach and general manager Layne Sedevie. “We’re excited to have him back, as well; we expect him to not only be a key contributor this season but also a leader on our team with his NAHL experience.”
The Wildcats play in the historic WCHA conference, and are led by first-year head coach Grant Potulny, a former assistant at the University of Minnesota. Potulny’s associate head coach in Marquette is former Bobcats bench boss Byron Pool.
“The coaching staff really impressed me and Marquette is a beautiful town,” added Johnson, who was voted North Dakota’s Outstanding Senior Athlete in hockey for 2017. “When I went on my visit it just felt right.”
Johnson and the rest of the 2017-18 Bobcats report back to the capital on Sunday, August 27, with Training Camp beginning the next day.
Season tickets for the 2017-18 campaign are also now available for pre-order: fans can get more information or reserve their seats for all of next year now by calling 222-3300 or by texting TICKETS to 701-390-7422.