Congratulation goes out to Colton Crabtree as he commits to Davenport University in  Grand Rapids Michigan.  Colton is amongst the Eels all- time leading scorers. He is a 3-year veteran of the Eels Premier team. Colton is from  BrightonCO. A forward. D/O/B: 02/18/199 He is 5’8”, 170 lbs, Shoots left.

Premier Head Coach Frank Scarpaci comments  “Colton is a hard working two way forward, who is always first  in on the fore-check and back check.  Colton  scores hard working goals and assists consistently. He is also one of our top special team players: outstanding on the power play and penalty kill. He is a real pest to play against but understands how to use it to his advantage.  Has some sneaky good speed and a real good finishing touch to his game. He matured a lot this past 2 seasons  and you can see it in his game.  Crabtree sees the ice well and is real good at making plays either off the rush or while applying pressure in the offensive zone. Can play in all situations and both wings well

General Manager Scarpaci commented that he recruited Crabtree three years ago on the recommendation of the Eels Midwest scout and after seeing him at a Midwest Showcase we knew  we wanted him. He has ripened into a solid  two-way forward. He makes opposing coaches blood boil with his competitive edge.  He is relentless and plays with a high complete level. He is a high-energy player who loved the high tempo game. He developed very well under our system. He drives to the net, has a good  accurate shot.   Crabtree is known for winning those loose puck battles along the boards and in front of the net. He has the insatiable appetite  to win and that is the way Eels’ play.

Colton looks forward to playing for Davenport’s ACHA Division I team. Davenport plays in a tough conference.  Crabtree looks forward to making the transition from a Florida Eel to a Davenport Panther.  He is so excited that his dreams are finally being realized. Colton no doubt is a key player on the Eels Premier team. In the last 2 seasons he help lead this team to their  best seasons ever. There is no doubt in Coach  Scarpaci’s mind that Colton will be an equally strong player for Davenport University. He is an impact player and will make his mark at  Davenport University.

Colton is very excited to be playing under his new Coach Phil Sweeney. Coach Sweeney has a very impressive record being the bench boss for the last 7 years.  Indeed, Davenport plays a very competitive schedule against teams such as: LINDENWOOD,WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY,UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-DEARBORN,ROCHESTER COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, and ROBERT MORRIS UNIVERSITY (ILL.).

We are all excited that Colton has reached his goal of playing college hockey. We wish him the best.