Published: June 05, 2009 07:05 am      

Stars' Bonis to play at FSU

He'll join TC's Redmond on roster

TRAVERSE CITY -- Kyle Bonis has been scoring goals since the time he joined the Traverse City North Stars.

But one goal eluded him, until now.

Bonis committed to play at Ferris State University, where he'll join Traverse City's Zach Redmond on the Bulldogs.

"It's good to see that Kyle got what he deserved," Stars coach Anthony Palumbo said. "I have felt from day one that Kyle was a Division 1 player. It's real heart-warming to see a kid who has worked really hard and has the ability to play Division 1 is going to get the chance. Kyle has worked really hard to get that chance."

Bonis set a North Stars single-season record with 30 goals, and is the franchise's all-time leader in goals (55) and points (98). He led the NAHL with eight game-winning goals.

"Kyle is talented and he's a goal-scorer," Palumbo said. "But you don't make it to Division 1 by being someone who's not willing to put in work. Kyle, on top of being a talented player, is also a real dedicated kid off and on the ice. He works hard in the weight room and in practice. It didn't come easy to him. He worked hard for this opportunity."

Bonis' signing brings TC's total to five players from this year's team who have signed to play collegiately, four of them in the CCHA. The North Stars have 13 Division 1 players total among their alumni and current roster.

Kyle Jean and Dan Radke are headed to Lake Superior, David Johnstone has already signed with Michigan State and goalie Brandon Stephenson is going to Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

"It started with (Patrick) Nagorsen and (Travis) Paeth," Palumbo. "If you look at the geography, you'd think it would be a natural fit. ... And we've got the quality players. It's good to see. That's what the program is all about."