One of the most recent additions to the Calgary Flames’ pipeline has made a decision on the next step in his development, one that he plans to act on immediately. Defenseman Jake Boltmann, a third round pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, has announced his commitment to the University of Notre Dame. The Lincoln Stars standout is expected to enroll for the spring semester and join the Fighting Irish in the coming weeks.
Boltmann, 19, is a Minnesota high school star who had initially committed to the University of Minnesota many years ago. After opting not to join the Gophers for the fall semester, Boltmann officially de-committed recently. He will now make his move to South Bend, joining a Notre Dame program that also recruited him heavily alongside Minnesota.
Boltmann became somewhat of a viral sensation when video emerged of the young defender finding out he had been drafted in the middle of practice, much to the excitement of his Lincoln teammates and coaches. Boltmann has now wrapped up his time with the Stars and is ready to join the Irish. The dependable defenseman will bring his strong defensive game to a team that already boasts considerable NHL prospect depth. The current group includes Boltmann’s fellow 2020 picks Landon Slaggert (CHI) and Ryder Rolston (COL) while the 2021 recruiting class includes first round hopeful Sasha Pastujov. The Flames hope that Boltmann can quickly establish himself as one of the top defenseman for Notre Dame, a team that should compete for NCAA titles during his tenure.
Long live the legacy of Lefty Smith!!! In uncertain economic times, getting a Notre Dame degree isn’t a bad idea. Can the Irish make the Frozen Four? This helps.