Who needs a degree anyway?

In college sports basketball is the one famous for having players leave school early to play pro. Lately it seems as if college hockey is following suit. Over the past couple weeks several players from Hockey East chose to give up their collegiate eligibility, and go for the big bucks.

Not a surprise to many that James van Riemsdyk, the second overall pick in the 2007 NHL Draft, is leaving UNH early to play for the Philadelphia Flyers. JVR will play the remainder of this season for the AHL Philadelphia Phantoms, but expect to see him on the Flyers ice next season.

Following van Riemsdyk to the Keystone state is Hockey East Player of the year Brad Thiessen. In his blog Thiessen announced he signed with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Thiessen will forgo his Senior season and join teammate Joe Vitale with the Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins for the remainder of the year.

Staying a bit closer to home (for now), are Nick Petrecki from Boston College and Joe Loprieno from Merrimack. Both chose to leave school early (Petrecki two years, Loprieno one) and sign with the San Jose Sharks.

Right now both are playing in Worcester in the AHL, and will try for the big time next season. Let's just hope Petrecki does not try to headbutt anyone in the NHL like he did against Maine.

Several big names from hockey east leaving early, and there is still the chance for more. What was once a sport that encourages athletes to stay and finish school is now seeing big name players go for the big bucks. Best of luck to all who leave for the pros.