GLENS FALLS, N.Y.- Sacred Heart University men's ice hockey graduate student Rourke Russell signed with the East Coast Hockey League's Adirondack Thunder, an affiliate of the National Hockey League's New Jersey Devils on Tuesday.
 
"We could not be more excited for Rourke as he reached a goal of playing professionally" said head coach C.J. Marottolo. "He was a tremendous addition to our group this year. His play on the ice and his leadership off the ice had a great impact. His skill set and skating ability will help him make the transition to the pro game. We are all proud of him and we will follow his career with great pride."
 
During his time with the Pioneers, he skated in 36 games and recorded two goals and seven assists, primarily on the third defensive line. He was second on the team this season in blocked shots with 50. Prior to SHU, the Long Beach, Calif. native played four years at the University of Miami (OH) where he appeared in 155 games, tallied five goals, and 24 assists.
 
The Pioneers have had a total of 86 alumni who pursued professional careers in hockey after graduating from SHU. Most recently, Justin Danforth signed the first ever NHL contract in program history with the Columbus Blue Jackets back in May of 2021.