Phantoms’ Stork delivered to Ohio State

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Youngstown Phantoms forward Luke Stork has committed to play college hockey at Ohio State after his United States Hockey League career, the Phantoms announced on Friday.

Stork is the 12th player on the current Phantoms roster to commit to play NCAA Division I hockey.

“I couldn’t be more happy or proud for Luke and his family,” Phantoms coach Anthony Noreen said. “He had a lot of options, but Ohio State was his No. 1 choice from day one and I’m glad it worked out for both sides.

“He’s the type of player that any team wants because his attitude and work ethic are second to none.”

Stork is a Pittsburgh native and is in his first full season with the Phantoms. He has 10 goals, 14 assists and 24 points while playing in all 48 games. The 6-foot, 175-pound forward is second in scoring among first-year players and sixth overall for Youngstown.

Stork was originally selected by the Phantoms in the third round (33rd overall) of the 2011 USHL Futures Draft. He put up 18-17-35 in 38 games last season with the Pittsburgh Hornets Under-18 AAA team and appeared in two games with Youngstown as an affiliate player, registering a shot.

“I’d like to thank Coach Noreen, the staff and my teammates,” Stork said. “I know this was the best decision for me and my family. I really like the coaching staff [at Ohio State] and everything the program has to offer. I’m proud to be a Buckeye.”

Ohio State is currently part of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association, but will move to the newly formed Big Ten hockey conference for its inaugural season in 2013-14.