The Windsor Spitfires' winningest goaltender in franchise history, Joey Costanzo, has announced his NCAA commitment for next season. After setting a club record with 102 wins, the 20-year-old will join the Michigan Tech Huskies in Houghton, Michigan.
Costanzo's Journey to Michigan Tech
Acquired from the Niagara IceDogs before the 2022-23 season for a future fourth-round pick and a 12th-round pick, Costanzo became a cornerstone for the Spitfires. Over four seasons, he surpassed Mikey DiPietro's previous record of 86 wins, finishing his five-year OHL career with 107 victories, the third-highest total in league history.
Spitfires' general manager Bill Bowler praised Costanzo: "Joey performed excellent for us over the years, had a strong playoff and I'm happy he gets to continue his hockey journey."
Michigan Tech finished No. 21 in the NCAA rankings and reached the Central Collegiate Hockey Association semifinals last season. Costanzo, who will major in business, cited the program's history and academics as key factors. "What made Tech the best fit for me was the strong history of the program, along with great academics," he said. "I believe Tech gives me the best ability to further my journey to becoming an NHL goaltender, but also have the opportunity to get a great degree to fall back on."
Former Spitfire Ryan Abraham, who joined the Huskies last season but played only six games, helped in Costanzo's recruitment before transferring to Lindenwood University. "Abe 100 per cent was helping through my recruitment process," Costanzo said. "He spoke very highly of the school, the team and the coaching staff."
Pharand Heads to Clarkson
Forward Alex Pharand, another overage Spitfire, has committed to Clarkson University for the fall. The 21-year-old, who can play any forward position, was acquired from the Sudbury Wolves along with Nathan Villeneuve in January. A former first-round pick by the Hamilton Bulldogs, Pharand finished his OHL career with 323 regular-season games and 30 playoff appearances.
"I've been talking to them for a while and pretty much had my decision made, but I wanted to wait for the season to be done and not have any distractions," Pharand said. He will also study business. "A lot of things attracted me to Clarkson. They really wanted me and it's always nice when someone's high on you. It's a great school with a small campus and, academically, small classrooms. I'm really excited. I think it'll be a great fit."
Kennedy's Decision Pending
The Spitfires' third overage player, defenceman Wyatt Kennedy, is expected to announce his commitment soon, potentially to the University of New Hampshire. Bowler expressed pride in all three: "I'm happy for those overage kids. They gave us everything they had."
