Chino Hills native, OCHC, Jr. Ducks alum Gines commits to NCAA D-III Framingham State

BY EHL STAFF

Nate Gines, a forward for HC Rhode Island in the EHL, has committed to Framingham State University for the fall of 2023.

The 2002-born native of Chino Hills spent a pair of seasons under the #EShow umbrella, working his way up the ladder from the Eastern Hockey League Premier (EHLP) to the Eastern Hockey League (EHL) and now onto NCAA hockey.

“We are all very proud and excited for Nate and what the future holds for him,” said Rhode Island head coach James Mello. “He came in early in the year and had said he very much wanted to play in the MASCAC. To see his growth as a player and young man throughout the season, we could not be happier that he was able to achieve his goal. Like all our players in Year 1, he helped us build a strong foundation for the future and will always hold a special place in the

HCRI hockey family.”

Gines moved to Rhode Island following the 2021-22 season that was spent with the New England Wolves.

Nate Gines spent the 2022-23 junior hockey season with the EHL’s HC Rhode Island. Photo/Dan Hickling/Hickling Images

Gines is grateful for the path he took, as it ultimately led him to this proud moment in his hockey career.

Combining the two years, Gines finishes his junior hockey career with 22 points in 23 games in the EHLP, and 38 points in 65 games in the EHL.

“HC Rhode Island was an incredible experience to be a part of, being in its first season in the EHL,” said Gines. “From Day 1, it did not feel like your average junior hockey team. Instead, it felt like a family and that we were playing for something bigger than ourselves. Throughout our highs and lows during the season, I was proud to put on the HCRI jersey every day and go to battle with my brothers, while setting a foundation of a franchise that most will never be able to say they did. I am extremely grateful to the entire staff for their commitment and guidance which led me to the decision to attend Framingham State University and play for Coach (Mike) Bailey and the Rams.”

Back home, Gines skated for the Orange County Hockey Club and Anaheim Jr. Ducks.