Copponi had been uncertain about his draft prospects and felt overwhelmed after last week.
Despite his impressive performance at age 18 with 9 points against men, he was passed over twice before and again until this season at Merrimack College.
However, Copponi's determination to succeed paid off as he worked hard on his game and had a breakthrough season, scoring 29 points in 37 games.
He proved himself in clutch moments, such as scoring an overtime goal against UMass Lowell, which helped send his team, the Warriors, to the Hockey East Final against Boston College.
Copponi describes himself as a hard worker, scrappy, and willing to put in the dirty work to achieve success. He looks forward to his third year of college hockey at Merrimack College.
POLL | ||
7 JUILLET | 224 ANSWERS Young draftee's inspirational story Do you think Matt Copponi will be a great addition to the Oilers? | ||
Yes | 110 | 49.1 % |
No | 114 | 50.9 % |
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