The Janesville Jets, members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), are proud to announce that Grady Gallatin has committed to play in NCAA Division 1 for Western Michigan. Grady is in his first season with the Jets. In 37 games played, he is third in points for defensemen on the team with 17 points. He has been a key part of the powerplay this season and it has been exciting to see him grow at the junior level.
“We are very excited for Grady and his family on his commitment to Western Michigan,” added Head Coach Joe Dibble. “Grady is a first-class person and attacks every day like a pro. He has continued to improve his game day by day and still has a very high ceiling for development. He has proven he’s not only a top defenseman on our team but in the entire league.”
The 2004 defenseman previously played in his hometown for White Bear Lake High School. During his high school years, he played in 91 games recording 49 points. The Minnesota native was introduced to hockey at a young age by his father, Randy Gallatin. Randy played four years of NCAA Hockey for St. Mary’s University. After graduation, he played two seasons of pro in the United Hockey League (UHL) for the Missouri River Otters. Randy’s passion for the game is what instilled that love of hockey in Grady. Family is a huge part of Grady’s life, and he credits a lot of his success to his amazing support system.
“I’d like to thank my family first and foremost, my mom Emily, my dad Randy, and my sister Gwen,” added Grady. “They have been with me through everything. I’d also like to thank my coaches and teammates along the way for developing me and helping me get to this point.”
Another big hockey role model in Grady’s life has been his older cousin Owen Gallatin. Owen is in his third season at the University of Minnesota Duluth. He is currently second on the team for points, with 25 points in 31 games as a defenseman. Growing up Grady looked up to Owen as a big brother and he is excited to have the opportunity to play at the Division 1 level like Owen.
Western Michigan University is located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The program was founded in 1973 and they are a part of the National Collegiate Hockey Conference. Head Coach Pat Ferschweiler is in his third season with the Broncos. Pat’s experience speaks for itself with a long resume, including being the assistant coach for the Detroit Red Wings and coaching internationally for Team USA. The Broncos are two times CCHA champions and had 8 NCAA tournament appearances. Western Michigan is wrapping up NCHC play with four regular season games remaining. They currently sit in fifth place with 31 points, right behind Colorado College with 34 points. With high-level coaching and a great program, it is no surprise that Grady decided to continue his hockey career for the Broncos.
“Western Michigan was a no-brainer for me,” added Grady. “The coaching staff is fantastic, the rink is like no other, and the campus is great. It was an overall great fit for me.”
With February coming to an end, the Jets currently sit in second place in the Midwest. Six weeks remain in the regular season and Janesville looks to secure a playoff spot. Like Grady, we are all looking forward to making a deep run, with all eyes on the Robertson Cup.