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If Eau Claire Memorial is going to defend its Wisconsin high school state championship, it's going to have to do so without its best player.
Senior forward Charley Graaskamp has signed with the Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League, agent Scott Deady confirmed to Bucky's 5th Quarter Saturday. Graaskamp also confirmed the news Saturday night via Twitter direct message.
By signing in the OHL, Graaskamp forfeits his NCAA eligibility.
"It was a hard decision," Graaskamp told the Eau Claire Leader Telegram. "You have a community and a team behind you and a leadership role to fill, but at the end of the day you want to do what's best for you to develop and reach your full potential as a hockey player."
Graaskamp has 18 goals and 47 points this season in 22 games for the Old Abes. He helped lead Memorial to a state title last season with 22 goals and 60 points as a junior. ECM is currently 15-4-1 on the season and ranked No. 3 in the state of Wisconsin.
The 6-foot-1, 180-pound forward was also a standout for Team Wisconsin. Earlier this fall, Graaskamp lead TW in scoring in the Elite League with 22 points in 21 games.
Graaskamp is expected to leave for the OHL sometime late next week.
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