Junior A veteran Coltura commits to Simon Fraser University for 2016/17

Simon Fraser University is proud to introduce Nick Coltura as the sixth member of the Clan's 2016/17 recruiting class.

Coltura wrapped up his junior hockey career as an assistant captain with the Coquitlam Express. He will be the second former Coquitlam Express defenceman on the roster, joining sophomore Dustin Cave.

Coltura joins the Clan as a player that Head Coach Mark Coletta had identified as a target early on in recruiting.

“Nick will be a great addition to of defence core, we had identified him last year, but we weren’t sure we would be able to get him.”

With a number of former teammates on the current roster, Coletta sees a great fit.

“He brings some great Junior A experience and will be able to make a smooth transition as he already knows a number of guys in the room."

Nick split his junior career between the Ridge Meadows Flames (2012-2014) and Coquitlam (2014-16) putting up 7 goals and 39 assists in 134 games.

“I’m a hardnosed defensemen," Coltura explains when asked to describe his style of play. "I like to play physically and try to play simple out on the ice. I have a strong first pass out of the zone and see the ice well.”

With the departure of Jesse Williamson, there will be minutes available for incoming defensemen.

SFU Assistant Coach Tom Spencer coached Coltura in his Major Midget days with the Valley West Hawks and is looking forward to having him join the team.

“He’s a really good pick up for us, he’s a reliable defenceman who you can use in all situations.”

Coltura is the sixth recruit for the 2016-17 season for SFU.