NCDC Commitment Profile: O’Connor Commits to Colby College
O’Connor Commits to Colby College
Jack O’Connor has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey at Colby College beginning in the 2026–27 season. O’Connor will continue his development with the Boston Jr. Rangers (NCDC) as he prepares for the next level.
The Canton, GA defenseman credited the Rangers organization for providing a strong environment both on and off the ice, as well as consistent support throughout the recruiting process.
“I have loved my experience with the Rangers organization so far. The community of guys here are the best. Most of us live together in apartments that are very close to the rink, and all of it is set up through the organization. The rink we play at has a good locker room setup and a state of the art gym with a shooting area as well.
Last but certainly not least, the coaching staff is some of the best I’ve ever been with. Coach Rich is always on the phone with schools and has been super helpful with colleges and helping me and others get recruited. He’s also one of those coaches you want to go out to war for and really fight for his team. Coach Brian Bowen is our assistant coach; he has been key in a lot of our wins and is always there as another figure to talk to when confused, in need of help, or want a good laugh. He uses his past D1 college and pro experience to teach the guys little things that make a major impact in their games.”
The recruiting process with Colby began in mid-November and quickly gained momentum as the coaching staff evaluated his game.
“I first started communicating with Colby in mid November when I received a text and call from coach Johnny McElaney. Also, my coach, Rich DeCaprio, was communicating on my behalf with the coaching staff at Colby early on. When recruiting me and watching my games, I think that the coaches at Colby liked my offensive output, my ability to shut down plays early, and quick transition in moving pucks north.”
O’Connor said the combination of Colby’s campus environment, hockey program, and academic reputation ultimately made it the right fit.
“Colby has many appeals to me as a player and person. I have a handful of friends that attend the school and the biggest part that they all love about the school is the community. College is a very formative time in everyone’s life and the type of community you choose to put yourself in can really determine the kind of person you turn out to be afterwards.
Hockey wise, you can’t get much better in D3 as the rink and facilities are very legit and borderline division one level. Academically, Colby being a NESCAC school is pretty hard to top as they are considered the small Ivy’s of the D3 world. The level of education and connections you get is something that poses as a great opportunity.”
With his college commitment secured, O’Connor remains focused on helping the Rangers compete at a high level and pursue a championship run this season.
“I want to win. Also, I want to do what I can to help the other guys land at a good spot for next season as well. I have more motivation and confidence than ever in not just myself but also the team. I know we can dominate at a high level on the ice and stat sheet. I want to be on a flight out to Idaho and win a championship there.”
The NCDC and Boston Junior Rangers congratulate Jack O’Connor and his family on his commitment to Colby College!