Johnstown defenseman Gibson makes NCAA DI commitment

The Johnstown Tomahawks of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that defenseman Justin Gibson has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Stonehill College.

In his debut season with the Johnstown Tomahawks, Gibson, 20, has contributed eight goals and 16 assists, totaling 24 points in 29 games played. Hailing from Pittsburgh, PA, he was appointed Assistant Captain for the Tomahawks this season. Notably, Gibson (6’1/190) currently holds the leading position in points among Tomahawks defensemen and earned the title of NAHL Defenseman of the Month for November.  

“I’m absolutely thrilled for Justin and his Division 1 commitment to Stonehill College,” said Johnstown Tomahawks Head Coach Mike Letizia. “He has been exceptional for us both on and off the ice since joining our hockey team. Justin has been an incredible 2-way defenseman providing so much to our team and being such a great leader in our locker room.  As Stonehill continues to build its program, Justin has a chance to have a profound impact on its growth, and that opportunity is very exciting. We are extremely grateful that Justin “came home” this season to play in Johnstown, and I feel very fortunate to coach someone like him every day.  We look forward to continued great play the rest of this season, and beyond.”

“I want to thank everyone in the Tomahawks organization, coaches, volunteers, players, and my billet family for helping me achieve this dream,” said Gibson. “I’m excited to join a new program in Stonehill and be a part of building a new culture. I think this will be a fun journey for me but first, I’m excited to finish the season in Johnstown and make a run for the Roberston Cup."

Before returning to play in his home state of Pennsylvania, Gibson played two seasons of Junior A hockey in Canada. The defenseman is also product of the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite program, where he spent five seasons contributing to the organization.

The Stonehill College Skyhawks men’s ice hockey team plays as an independent team in NCAA Division I and is located in Easton, Massachusetts. Gibson will join a talented Skyhawk roster including former Johnstown Tomahawk, Anthony Galante. 

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list