ECHL Announces Recipients of Bellevue University Scholarships

ECHL Announces Recipients of Bellevue University Scholarship

Railers Assistant Coach Jason Franzone selected as one of five recipients

SHEWSBURY, N.J. – The ECHL today announced the inaugural five recipients of scholarships through Bellevue University, the Official Higher Education Partner of the ECHL.

As part of the partnership, all ECHL players, officials, staff and employees were eligible to apply for a scholarship to start or finish a bachelor’s or graduate degree program of their choice at Bellevue University.

The inaugural class of scholarship recipients includes:

•  Jake Flegel, Player – Wheeling Nailers (Bachelor’s Degree)
•  Jason Franzone, Assistant Coach – Worcester Railers (Bachelor’s Degree)
•  Frederic Letourneau, Player – Idaho Steelheads (Graduate Degree)
•  Brian Perkins, Director of Ticket Strategy, Data and Analytics – Toledo Walleye
•  Davids Rozitis, Linesman – ECHL (Graduate Degree)

“This scholarship opportunity is one the most exciting parts of the ECHL/Bellevue University relationship, as we have a wonderful inaugural class consisting of two players, an assistant coach, a front office staff member and an on-ice official,” said ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin. “It is an honor to be able to see these colleagues as they further pursue their education through this program and we look forward to watching them on their journey towards graduation.”

About the ECHL

Began in 1988-89 with five teams in four states, the ECHL has grown into a coast-to-coast league with 27 teams in 20 states and two Canadian provinces for its 34th season in 2021-22. There have been 719 players who have gone on to play in the National Hockey League after starting their careers in the ECHL, including 21 who have made their NHL debuts in the 2021-22 season. The ECHL has affiliations with 27 of the 32 NHL teams in 2021-22, marking the 25th consecutive season that the league has affiliations with at least 20 teams in the NHL. Further information on the ECHL is available on its website at ECHL.com as well as on Twitter and Facebook.

About Bellevue University

Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with nearly 60,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everyone online with more than 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).