Tyler Borsch has made his commitment to Dartmouth College for the 2020-2021 season. Neutral Zone scouts have seen Tyler play several times, noting his speed, skating ability, and puck handling skills.
The Minnesota native takes us through his recruiting process, “I had been speaking to four schools, mostly on the east coast. I had a couple visits in the last few weeks leading up to my decision.” Talking about his final decision, “I knew I wanted to go to a strong academic school, which Dartmouth is. During my visit, I was impressed with the facilities, the campus was beautiful and the coaches were great. I could see myself there, which was really important to me.”
Tyler started playing hockey at age 5 in his hometown of Maple Grove. He would continue to play in Minnesota through high school, “Minnesota High School hockey is very cool because you play good hockey with your friends, and get to represent your school. High school hockey is very popular in Minnesota and a lot of people watch the games. Playing in front of 20,000 people in the Minnesota High School State Tournament is an experience I’ll never forget.”
After graduation from high school in 2018, Tyler looked to continue his career at the Junior level with the New Jersey Hitmen of the NCDC. He tell us about the process, “My advisor had made an introduction between me and Coach Toby Harris over the summer. I spoke with Coach Harris a few times in the summer and early fall. I started the preseason playing in the USHL with the Tri City Storm. When I was released right before the regular season started, I had an option to go to the NAHL, but I really like Coach Harris. And I liked the idea of playing on the east coast by the schools that I was interested in. I am glad I made that decision. The Hitmen organization has been awesome, I have great coaches and teammates, and I have really enjoyed playing in the league.”
While Minnesota High School is the competitive high school league in the US; it’s still a jump to go from high school to juniors. “Junior hockey is more serious and more competitive. I have really enjoyed getting to meet some good guys from all over the world, and playing high level hockey. It has helped me improve my game and will help me get ready for college.” Tyler has another full season before heading to Dartmouth, “Playing for the Hitmen in the NCDC is helping me get better as a player, a teammate and a person. I will focus on improving my skills and getting stronger before going to college.”
He is looking to major in either business or science while at Dartmouth.
Tyler, a two-way defensenamn, has played 15 games with the Hitmen this season, and accumulated 9 points on 2 goals and 7 assists.
Photo credit: Hickling Images
