Nick Strom commits to RPI
RPI commit Nick Strom (photo: gofundme.com)
RPI was able to pick up another transfer commitment in April when Nick Strom announced his commitment to the Engineers. Strom is a 6’0″ and 185 LBs LD who just completed his freshman year at Western Michigan. He didn’t play a game due to injury. He had double shoulder surgery at the beginning of the season. The year prior, Strom played for the Fargo Force in the USHL where he had 5 goals, 8 assists and 13 points in 40 games. He served as their captain as well, showing high-level leadership capabilities.
Strom is an extremely smart defenseman with very good defensive awareness. He’s always calm and composed, making the right play. He’s got good mobility with smooth skating all around and in all directions, and he’s great at breaking out the puck with good passing ability. He was on their top PK unit, got a ton of ice time and was used as a shutdown defenseman with this skill set. He can also play on his off side.
Just as important (if not more) as on the ice contributions, Strom is also great off the ice. Not only did he serve as Fargo’s captain, but he also fundraised for the Cullen Children’s Foundation. He raised over $5,000 for them and also grew out his hair for over a year, so that he could cut and donate it. Strom will fit right into the team’s philosophy of having high-character leaders who make great impacts off the ice.
Overall, with his strong defensive skill set, Strom will be able to make an immediate impact on RPI’s blue line despite missing a year with injury. He will be a key part of building off of last season’s strong defensive play. Congratulations to Nick and his family!
