Williston, N.D. - Teton hockey goalie, David Krejcik, has accepted an offer to play NCAA Division 1 hockey this fall at Niagara University in New York after graduating with honors from WSC with an Associates in Arts this May.

Originally from the Czech Republic, Krejcik played minors for the Traverse City Hounds (now Traverse City North Stars) in Traverse City, Michigan before playing for the Tetons in 2015.  

Krejcik is the first Teton hockey player to transfer to play at a NCAA D1 school. He is also only the second JUCO player to make the jump since Dustin Penner transferred from Minot State University-Bottineau (now Dakota College at Bottineau) in 2003 to play at the University of Maine. Penner later went on to win the Stanley Cup with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007.  

"I am very grateful for this opportunity [as] it is a dream come true for me," Krejcik stated. "I have a chance to pursue my education and continue playing the sport I love at the same time. The fact that I could move up from the junior college to a D1 school shows the high level of the WSC hockey program. I am glad I had the opportunity to be a part of it."  

In the 2016-17 season, Krejcik played 17 games with the Tetons with a 2.92 goals-against average, .927 save percentage, and one shutout. During the Teton's three National games, Krejcik had a 3.61 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage.  

"Krejcik is a stand out and was instrumental in the Teton's making it to Nationals the past two years," said, John Bowkus, Teton Head Hockey Coach.  

WSC switched leagues in the 2016-17 season to join the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA). In a more competitive conference, the Tetons doubled their games and were ranked first by remaining undefeated in Division II play and beating a few ACHA Division I teams including Minot State University, ranked first in the ACHA Division I.   

"Our goal at WSC is to show our student athletes that they can get a great education and can advance to a higher level of hockey through our program," Bowkus explained. "Krejcik is living proof that WSC athletes can jump to D1."  

While under the direction of Niagara University Head Coach, Jason Lammers, Krejcik hopes to continue his education in Business Management after taking several WSC business classes.  

"I would like to thank my coaches, my teammates, friends, all the professors, and school staff for their help. I wouldn't be able to achieve this without them," Krejcik explained. "Finally, thank you to the whole community for all the support you have given me and for a great two years in Williston."

For any information regarding WSC, please visit www.willistonstate.edu,
call 1.888.863.9455, or stop by 1410 University Avenue, Williston, ND.