Congratulations To 6’3” 206-pound Florida Eels Forward Gabriel Hemström from Stockholm, Sweden As He Commits to NCAA Division 3 New England College. This is the Eels 243rd College Commit and #10 for this season.
By Frank Scarpaci
Yes indeed, the Eels are especially excited with the announcement that Gabriel Hemström committed to New England College. Hemström is a 2nd year veteran of the Florida Eels Premier team. GM Scarpaci commented; Gabe is a high impact player. He is a beast of forward. He did things the right way. In his first year with the Eels he set out to learn the North American style of play. Smaller rinks, more hitting, more shooting on net. It took him a while and it was a maturing process. In year one his numbers were very good in 44 games he scored: 12 goals and notched 12 assists for 24 points. In fact, this was consistent with his high watermark in Sweden where at the J20 Elite level, in 20 games, he scored 12 goals and 15 assists for 27 points. However, Gabe was anything but complacent. Indeed, at the end of his first season with the Eels he openly acknowledged he was not done. He challenged himself to be better stronger and more determined than ever.
He knew he had far too much more to offer and for him to advance to College hockey he had to do a lot more. He returned home more focused and dedicated than ever. As retuning player, this season he clearly ratcheted things up several notches. Otherwise stated he was dominate out there. He was a man amongst boys becoming one of the Eels and the USPHL Premier top performers.
For example, In 43 games this season, Gabe scored an impressive 18 goals and assisted on another 26 for 44 points. Thus, averaging over a point per game. He was solid in special teams with 5 powerplay goals and 3 powerplay assists. Equally impressive was despite his size at 6”3” 206 pounds he only incurred 2 minutes in penalties. That stat is amazing when you take in consideration the way and style of his play. He over powers opponents. He is a force to be dealt with. He ripened into a pro type player. To say he is punishing and effectively uses his body is the understatement of the year. And he does it without costing his team. This is a smart hockey player says GM Scarpaci Very high hockey IQ.
Premier Head coach Frank Scarpaci provided the following scouting report:
Massive forward who is learning the ability to put some power into his game. Very smooth skater. Explosive speed and that is very impressive with his size. Owns a heavy shot. Shots very accurate. Battles very hard along the boards and in the crease. Takes over the offensive zone. Wears opposing D-man down in front of their net. He has a relentless work ethic. Shoots over 150 pucks each day. High hockey IQ., great character individual. Dominate player who has adapted to the North American style of play. Will adapt very well in college.
