By: Ken Oda, minotauroshockey.com
Minot, ND – Minotauros’ forward Mason Morelli has committed to the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) for the 2015/16 season. Morelli just a ’96 birth year finished fifth on the Tauros in scoring this season with 27 points (12g, 15a) in 54 games, an added an assist in the Tauros first round playoff series loss to Ausin.
Morelli credits both the Mavericks’ and the Tauros’ coaching staffs for his decision. When it came to making his commitment UNO was an easy choice for Morelli. “They were very interested and very good to me,” said the Tauros’ sniper. He continued “I’m excited to play for Dean Blais.” Morelli was also quick to credit his time with his hometown Tauros for his development. “Marty and Mick have been great. They’ve helped me with my game and got me exposure. They played a huge roll for me.”
Morelli was a key to the Tauros 6th ranked power play last season with seven goals and nine assists when the Tauros were up a man. Morelli was one of seven Tauros named to the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament and while there he posted a goal and an assist for the NAHL U18 Selects team.
Nebraska Omaha is an NCAA DI program making Morelli the second Tauro from the 2012/13 team to commit to a DI school (Tyler Parks, St. Lawrence). The UNO Mavericks had been members of the WCHA but will begin play this season in the newly formed NCHC.