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Zach Walker commits to Boston College

Walker will skate for the US National Team Development Program this winter.

Jerry York
Jerry York
Matt Dewkett

Boston College, the most successful program in the country over the past two decades, has picked up a commitment that could help its run of greatness down the line. Colorado Thunderbirds U16 forward Zach Walker, a '98, has pledged to play college hockey for the Eagles starting in either 2016 or 2017.

Walker competed in this month's USA Hockey Select 16 Festival in Amherst, NY. The week-long camp brought many of the top '98 born American prospects together for a showcase to college recruiters, USHL, major junior and NHL scouts.

The Boise, Idaho native had a goal and four assists at the camp. Walker ranked 41st in this observer's rankings following the event.

41. Zachary Walker (#12 Kelly) 6-0/175 Colorado Thunderbirds U16 AAA - He doesn't have elite skill, but he does a good job of pushing the pace. He goes to the net; he's strong, physical and made a legitimate effort backchecking.

He'll skate for the US National Team Development Program (NTDP) in Ann Arbor this upcoming season with the organization's U17 team. Walker's game progressed a lot over the past year under the direction of Thunderbirds head coach Angelo Ricci.

"Zach has developed into a big time prospect. He has a work ethic and compete level that is second to none. He is very strong and is a hard to play against two-way player," said Ricci. "Zach is an excellent skater which allows him to be F1 on the forecheck. He can create a lot of space for other skilled players."

His a player that Boston College projects to develop further and mature even more while at the prestigious program.

Walker has the signs of being a great collegiate player, but Michael Ayers, who was in Amherst, and the rest of the Eagle coaching staff are offering a player who they believe will get even better before arriving in Chestnut Hill.

"BC is very fortunate to land such high character player that happens to also be a terrific student. If he continues to develop his potential is unlimited," added Ricci.

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Jeff Cox covers college, junior and high school hockey, NCAA recruiting and NHL Draft prospects. Follow him on twitter @JeffCoxSports.