"We are extremely happy for Billy on his commitment to UNE," said EHL head coach and general manager Rich DeCaprio. "He has worked so hard the past 2 seasons, both on and off the ice. He’s a true team leader in the locker room and in games/practices. UNE is getting a tremendous competitor as well as a great person."

When Girard returned this past fall for his second season in the EHL, he came back with high expectations for his final year of junior hockey. Girard was a preseason candidate for the Goalie of the Year award in the EHL, and was one of the first players selected to the 2019 EHL All-Star Team. In 33 total starts to date, Girard has not disappointed, while posting an overall mark of 26-5-2. The veteran goaltender also ranks towards the top of the league with a 2.34 GAA, a .930 save percentage, and five shutouts.

"I'm extremely thankful to be able to play under Coach DeCaprio for the past two seasons," said Girard. "Coach DeCaprio gave me an opportunity to play and develop as a player, both on and off the ice, to get me ready for the collegiate level. The Rangers also gave me the ability to showcase myself in front of some excellent schools because of its great exposure and track record, which helped me make my decision to commit to UNE. I’m very thankful to Coach DeCaprio and Coach Aucoin for giving me this opportunity and grateful to my teammates for helping me make this possible. I’m excited for what the future has in store at UNE."

Girard and the Rangers are close to clinching the top seed in the New England Conference, and with one more win between the pipes, Girard would set a new league record for wins in a single regular season at 27. Girard gets his first crack at setting the record tomorrow afternoon at 2:00pm, when the Rangers play host to the New England Wolves.