UA Hockey continues its early recruiting success, this time adding a hard-nosed center, which will undoubtedly provide more offensive boost to the roster. The Wildcats are proud to introduce their newest commitment, Dillon Balsamo, who will be the 6th addition to the 2016-17 recruiting class.

Dillon Balsamo comes from Brooklyn, NY as a transfer (junior) from the University of Rhode Island Rams. In his freshman year with the Rams he was able to produce 20 points in 35 games, ending the season with 12 goals and 8 assists.

Before his time with the Rams, Balsamo had a very successful junior career with the Richmond Generals (MetJHL), where he served as team captain. In his final season with the Generals he produced 68 points in 35 games, tallying an impressive 32 goals and 36 assists.

"Deciding on the University of Arizona was an easy decision to make after taking a trip out to visit,” said Dillon Balsamo. “Seeing what the school has to offer as well as seeing the team play, the level of competition every night, and the atmosphere in the arena, this is a program I look forward to being a part of. I'm excited to bring my physical, hard nosed offensive game to Arizona in the fall."

Standing at 6’0”, 190 lbs., Balsamo's skill-set falls inline with the trend of this recruiting class; speed and goal-scoring.  He will be the 5th addition to the forward group, providing some much-needed punch to the Wildcats offense.

“Dillon is a huge get for us,” said Coach Berman. “This really gives us tremendous depth at the center position. We can use him in any situation; he has the speed and playmaking ability to be very productive for us. He is a perfect compliment to what we already have, not to mention, he brings a level of physicality and grit that will be necessary to make a deep run in the national tournament.”

“Our roster is really beginning to shape up the way I had hoped. We want a team that is built from our defense and goaltending-through our centers-with speed and playmakers on the wing. These are very exciting times for our program, it’s hard to believe that we were able to assemble this caliber of talent and character in only two recruiting classes. When you combine this with the returning core we have , I think we have a chance to take this program to the next level."

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