WALL, NJ — Jack Foote describes the EHLP as “the perfect stepping stone” for his path to NCAA hockey.
Now suiting up in his second year for Lebanon Valley College, the ‘03 blueliner was once a AA and high school hockey player from Shrewsbury, NJ. With the goal of playing NCAA hockey, Foote knew he needed to pick the right juniors program to reach his objective. Insert the New Jersey 87’s.
“I wanted a place where I could be pushed every day and develop at a higher level. The 87’s were one of the programs that really stood out because of their culture, coaching, and track record of advancing players. I started in the EHLP because it was the right spot for me to get consistent reps, adjust to the junior game, and prove I could handle the pace and workload. It ended up being the perfect stepping stone.”
Foote embarked on a remarkable rookie season. He collected eight goals and 22 assists, earning him a spot in the EHLP All-Star Game, and the nod for December Defenseman of the Month. The year culminated with an EHLP Championship.
“It was really special,” Foote said. “That group was tight, and everyone bought into what we were trying to do. We had the talent, but more important than that, we had the chemistry and belief in each other. Winning a championship with that team is still one of the best hockey experiences I’ve had.”
From a development standpoint, Foote credits that year as “setting the tone” for how he approached each step to the next level.
“I got the chance to play a ton with lots of opportunities and learning experiences. I learned how to handle the mental and physical grind of junior hockey. It helped me build confidence, consistency, and maturity in my game.”
Earning a spot at the EHL level, Foote enjoyed another impressive campaign. Appearing in 36 games, Foote tallied five points at the EHL level and established himself as a physical, tough-to-play-against defender.
He credits the coaching staff and the EHL returners for his smooth adjustment. Despite needing to adapt to quicker reads, a higher pace, and a more physical game, Foote embraced the challenge and was a regular for New Jersey’s 25-win season. His steadiness garnered interest from Lebanon Valley College.
“The process with LVC went really smoothly,” Foote recalled. “They were one of the first schools to show genuine interest, and they made it clear that I could fit into their program right away. I connected well with the coaching staff, liked the campus environment, and felt it was a place where I could grow both academically and as a student athlete.”
Foote appeared in twelve games in his freshman season and recorded his first NCAA assist in the process. Now with a year of college competition behind him and a productive offseason focused on strength, skating, little details, and the mental side, Foote is enjoying a more comfortable year two.
“Year two has felt much more natural. I know what to expect and I’m more confident. The game has slowed down for me and I’m really understanding the pace, systems, and daily expectations, instead of adapting on the fly.”
Foote’s progression is an example of finding one’s game as they ascend levels. And with that invaluable experience, comes invaluable advice.
“The jump is real. Guys are faster, stronger, and more consistent. Focus on habits, ask questions, take advantage of every rep in practice, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.”
