Hockey Inks Simms for 23-24 Season

(Howell, MI)-- The Cleary University ACHA D1 hockey team has signed Billy Simms to it's incoming freshman class.

Simms, a Plymouth, Michigan native, has spent the past three seasons in the North American Hockey League (NAHL), playing for the Lone Star Brahmas (2019-20), the Springfield Jr. Blues (2019-20), the Johnstown Tomahawks (2020-22), and the Willmar WarHawks (2021-22).  Simms did not play in 2022-23 due to injury.  

Cougar head coach Scott Gardiner is extremely excited to welcome the defenseman to the program.  "He's the equivalent of a 1st round draft pick for our team.  His skill is going to help on special teams, both offensively and defensively.  He already has chemistry with our current players, and he brings a level of experience where he will actually play more like a veteran than the freshman he technically is."

Simms' time in the NAHL saw him play more than 20 games twice, with his best season in 2019-20 with the Springfield Jr. Blues.  During that season, he scored 2 goals and had 9 assists, totalling 11 points, while also picking up 26 penalty minutes.  His 2021-22 season with the Johnstown Tomahawks saw him earn 4 assists and 28 penalty minutes in 21 games played.

Simms said that Coach Gardiner and Coach Montrose were the biggest selling point when choosing Cleary.  "The coaches really believed in me, and sold me on what this team can be for the next four years.  I can't wait to get back on the ice."  

When asked what fans can expect from his play, Simms said, "I'm a skilled, puck moving defensemen.  Hopefully, I can show everyone exactly that."