Former Phoenix Jr. Coyotes defenseman Daniel Kiraly has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks beginning with the 2016-17 season.

The Nanooks are members of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA).

“Alaska was the right choice because of their style of play,” said Kiraly. “I like the coaches and I have a few friends on the team. Everything seemed like the perfect fit.”

The 20-year-old Gilbert native has seven points (two goals, five assists) with a plus-7 rating through 13 games with the North American Hockey League’s Odessa Jackalopes this season.

Peoria native and Odessa teammate Derek Brown will join Kiraly in the NCAA ranks next season when he suits up for Niagara University.

“The Jacks helped me day in and day out,” said Kiraly of his time in Odessa, which included a 25-game stint in 2014-15. “From practice to the gym, they helped me get better. Coach (Greg) Gatto really helped me to push myself to work on every aspect of my game.

“It’s a team game and without my teammates, I wouldn’t be in this position today.”

Kiraly has also been successful off the ice with a 3.9 GPA in the class room.

Photo/NAHL