Ikkala latest to sign with Dutchmen

It has been announced that Cole Ikkala has committed to join Union next season. Cole is a 6' 1", 195 lbs. forward, and will turn 20 this summer. With the Vernon Vipers (BCHL) this season Ikkala has accumulated 22 goals, 23 assists, and 45 points in 58 games. College hockey runs in the Ikkala family as Cole's father played for Northern Michigan and his older brother Cody plays at Army. It will be interesting to see how the next Union-Army game turns out with Ikkala's on both sides.

He sounds like a future third or fourth line guy, someone who is comparable to junior assistant captain Andrew Buote. From what people are saying, he's a guy that isn't flashy and won't accumulate too many points, but he does a lot of the dirty work and will get the job done. Players like that are extremely valuable, and every team has a guy or two like that. Ikkala might not see too much playing time next year considering he had a limited amount of experience in juniors, but he could replace Buote the year after. Just based on the information I have heard an read I like this signing. Role players are very important to have as stars will not be able to perform well without a supporting cast.

I'm pretty sure Ikkala's nickname is (or will be) Ikky. So, after he scores his first NCAA goal he better do the Ickey Shuffle. Also, I think the song for when he scores should be Icky Thump by the White Stripes.

For more on Cole Ikkala check out the Vernon Morning Star and this video where Ikkala is interviewed.