ROCHESTER, Minn. – Two-year Rochester Grizzlies forward Matt DeRosa has signed a tender with the St. Cloud Blizzard of the North American Hockey League.
DeRosa, 18, has played in 85 games for the Grizzlies where he’s averaged above a point-per-game pace with 86 total points in two seasons. The Alphretta, GA, native is familiar with the North American Hockey League as well having competed in eight games over two seasons with the Austin Bruins.
“Matt worked very hard to improve his game this year,” said Grizzlies Head Coach Chris Ratzloff. “We are excited for him to get the opportunity in the NAHL. He has had a taste a couple of times and now knows what it takes to stick.
In St. Cloud, DeRosa will be coached by the Central Division’s newest bench boss, Corey Millen. In addition, DeRosa will be reunited with former Grizzlies Head Coach and current Blizzard assistant head coach, Casey Mignone.
Ratzloff went on to say, “Casey [Mignone] is familiar with what Matt will bring to the growth of their team. We look forward to seeing him continue to improve and the success he will have.”
DeRosa becomes the third Grizzly to sign an NAHL Tender this season behind Peyton Hart (Austin Bruins) and Sean Guerin (Wichita Falls).