Topeka forward Lutz makes NCAA DI commitment

April 11, 2016

 

The Topeka RoadRunners, proud members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), are proud to announce veteran forward Dominic Lutz has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for the Ferris State Bulldogs beginning in the fall of 2016.

 

Lutz exploded onto the high school hockey scene at Livonia-Stevenson High School in his hometown of Livonia, MI. He served as captain in his junior year and was Warrior Player of the Year, scoring 61 points (33g, 28a) in 25 games, adding another 17 points (10g, 7a) in 6 postseason games. As a senior, Lutz ramped up his game by racking up 81 points (43g, 38a) in 27 games. He was recognized as USHS Michigan “Mr. Hockey” as the best Michigan high school player. 

 

"It was seeing family members play the game, along with watching games on TV that sparked a passion in Lutz. “Once I started playing, I never wanted to stop. I always liked being around the net and being on the attack.” 

 

The offensively gifted forward became aware of the RoadRunners organization while still playing high school hockey.  “I remember my coaches in high school mentioned (the RoadRunners) program a couple of times while I was playing there. Once I looked more into the organization, I saw they always had a great team and moved a lot of guys onto college.” 

 

The opportunity to play Division I college hockey is the dream of most every junior player, but to play close to home makes it that much sweeter.  “Ferris has been a very successful program and I really like the coaching staff there”, Lutz explained. “I really like everything they have going on and it felt like the perfect fit for me. Growing up in Michigan, I have always hoped for an opportunity to play at Ferris State.”

 

That dream is now a reality, and Lutz is contemplating his academic focus, deciding between an engineering degree or possibly going into business. 

 

RoadRunner Head Coach Josh Kamrass has watched Lutz adapt to junior hockey over the last two seasons and knows he has the tools to continue to elevate his game at the next level. ”Our organization is very excited for this opportunity for Dom”, Kamrass said. “He has been a proven goal scorer at every level he has played. His work ethic on and off the ice, and dedication in the gym has allowed him to excel as a hockey player. His drive and determination is something you cannot teach. Dom is a humble young man who has earned everything he has to this point in career. Ferris State is getting a quality hockey player and a quality person.” 

 

Lutz had a very good 2015-16 regular season, recording 50 points in 58 games played, which ranked 2nd on the Topeka roster. He also played for the NAHL Selects Team at the 2016 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament, where he had two goals in two games. Lutz initially wore an “A” on his sweater when captains were announced, and his leadership eventually elevated him to share co-captaincy with Cam Strong. After making the decision to commit to Ferris State, he acknowledged a wide array of people who have contributed to his journey. 

 

“I am very grateful for the coaches I have had over the years. I have been fortunate enough to play for great coaches on and off the ice who have always done everything they could to move me on to the next level. I cannot thank them enough. I am also very thankful to be a part of the RoadRunners organization, I have loved my time here and they have given me every opportunity to fulfill my dreams of playing college hockey. Finally, I would like to send a huge thanks to my family. They have been very supportive of me with every decision I have made, and I could not have gotten nearly as far as I have without them.”

 

Lutz is now the sixth player in franchise history to join Ferris State, following Cody Chupp (2003-04), Nate Hennig (2006-07), Tommy Hill (2007-08), Nate Milam (2010-11), and Tyler Andrew (2012-13). He is also the sixth current RoadRunner with a Division I commitment, joining Cam Strong (Dartmouth), Tyler Johnson (Maine), Sami Tavernier (Merrimack), Johnny Walker (Arizona State), and Tyler Hayes (Niagara).