By Tyler Brown/ Director of Social Media – Wellington Dukes
Although the season ended a lot sooner than many fans had hoped, the 2023-24 Dukes continue to garner attention south of the border as Dukes overage goaltender Shane Shelest has committed to NCAA Division III Cortland University Red Dragons.
Shelest, a native of Pointe-Claire, Quebec, was acquired early in the season from the Okotos Oilers of the AJHL and played a major role in stabilizing the back end for a Dukes team thin on experience. In 23 games, the 20 year old had a 14-8-0-0 record and sported a 2.67 GAA and .905 SV% – both which were inside the top 20 in goalies in the OJHL.
Dukes Head Coach/Director of Hockey Ops Kent Lewis spoke highly of Shelest’s character when reached for comment on Shelest’s commitment! “I’m extremely happy with this announcement. Shane since coming to us brought us stability on the ice but more importantly in the room. He was a great teammate for all but most notably a great veteran to Jack. It was great to meet his family and want to congratulate them all and wish him the best on his next chapter.”
Shelest noted that he was very excited for the next chapter of his hockey journey at Cortland and spoke fondly of the Dukes community. “I am extremely proud and honoured to announce my commitment to play college hockey at SUNY Cortland. I would like to thank my coaches, family, friends, teammates, and advisor for helping throughout the process. Special thanks to the Wellington community for making this past year so special.”
With the commitment, the 2023-24 Dukes team has now had 3 players commit to NCAA programs in the United States following Nick DiPaolo and Connor Loerzel. The Dukes continue to be a leader in advancing players to the next level of hockey in the CJHL.