OSHAWA, Ont. – Austin Eastman has joined the pro ranks after signing with the Greenville Swamp Rabbits of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL).
Eastman leaves the Ontario Tech men's hockey program midway through his third season, sitting ninth in Ontario University Athletics (OUA) scoring with two goals and eight assists through nine games. He was also the Ridgebacks' point leader at the holiday break.
"The opportunity came about a few months back when the coaching staff from Greenville and I started communicating," said Eastman. "Things obviously escalated more quickly due to the season pause and lockdowns in Ontario. I believe this will be the right fit for me to further my hockey career as I think it's important to go to a team that believes in me and looks to develop players to the next level as the ultimate goal is to continue moving forward."
Eastman's offensive success made him the first Ridgeback men's hockey OUA first team all-star award winner in 2019-20. In his sophomore season he posted a 30-point year (14G, 16A), finishing 16
th in league scoring.
He also led the OUA that season with four game-winning goals.
"Austin has had a tremendous two plus seasons with our program and has been a big contributor from day one," said head coach
Curtis Hodgins. "His elite speed and offensive skills made him a threat every shift and he played a huge role in driving our offence. Off the ice Austin has been just as valuable and he will leave a great legacy behind him here with our program. We wish him all the best as he starts his pro career with Greenville."
Through his time as a Ridgeback, Eastman has 21 goals and 34 assists over 65 games, 15
th in all-time points at Ontario Tech.
"Don't know where to start when it comes to being a Ridgeback," said Eastman. "This place has grown me into the person and hockey player that I am today. I couldn't have done it without my coaching staff and teammates, and I will forever be thankful for the belief everyone has had in me since day one of being here. Forever a Ridgeback."
