Springfield, Illinois – The Springfield Jr. Blues, proud members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), are pleased to announce that Captain James Callahan has announced his commitment to play NCAA Division 1 hockey for Air Force Academy!
Callahan, a veteran blueliner from Minneapolis, MN, is in his second season with the Jr. Blues and first as Captain. Through 6 games this season he currently has 1 goal, but last season he racked up 7 goals and 16 assists in 59 games, most among defenseman and 9th most on the team overall.
“James came to us last season and has worked hard on and off the ice to get to where he is today,” said Head Coach Tyler Rennette. “He’s a phenomenal young man, a leader in the locker room, and a positive influence around the rink. He’s earned his commitment and we are very proud of him!”
“I am very excited and proud to announce my commitment to further my education, serve my country, and play Division 1 hockey at the Air Force Academy,” Callahan said via Instagram. “I want to thank everyone who helped me along the way and made this journey so much fun! #GoFalcons”
“Cally” played High School Hockey for Benilde-St. Margaret’s in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota as well as for Team SIT. In 96 games for Benilde-St. Margaret he scored 11 goals and 52 assists alongside a +40 rating. For Team SIT, he tallied 3 goals and 8 assists in 37 games. In addition to his regular season success, James was also selected to and represented the Jr. Blues at the 2022 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament with fellow teammates Ethan Roberts, Leo Bacallao, Carson Jones, Cole Dubicki, Isaac Novak, and Michael Valdez.
Callahan becomes the 4th player on the 2022-23 roster to commit to an NCAA program and the first to do so this season. He joins Mac Gadowsky (Army-West Point), Nikita Nikora (Dartmouth), and Edvards Bermanis (Alaska-Anchorage). He will be the 11th Jr. Blues alum to play at Air Force, with two of the most notable being Trevor Stone and Brady Tomlak.
Congratulations, James! We are proud of you and can’t wait to see what you’re able to do at the next level!
