Pontiacs defenceman Ben Costantino commits to Dalhousie Tigers

Bonnyville Pontiacs defenceman Ben Costantino has committed to the Dalhousie University Tigers, taking the next step in his hockey career as he prepares to finish his final Junior A season.

The 21-year-old made his commitment official on Friday, March 12, and will join the U SPORTS program based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

“I’m excited to just get started and I’m ready for the new challenge,” said Costantino. “I knew the Tigers were the right program the moment they approached me and showed interest. Halifax is already a really cool place to live and I’m really excited to start my next chapter playing hockey there.”

Strong finish with the Pontiacs

Costantino joined the Pontiacs earlier this season in a trade from the Lloydminster Bobcats. Since arriving in Bonnyville, the 6-foot-4 St. Albert product has made an immediate impact, recording 18 goals and 18 assists for 36 points in 48 games.

“Being a Pontiac has helped me be a better player along with being a better person,” said Costantino.

Despite the team falling short of the playoffs this season, Costantino said the group is focused on finishing strong in their final game of the year.

That final game is scheduled for Friday, March 13 against the Lloydminster Bobcats during the Pontiacs’ annual Canadian Natural Anti-Bully Night.

Journey to the next level

Before joining Bonnyville, Costantino spent time in the United States playing for the Elmira Aviators of the NAHL. He later returned to Canada and helped the Lloydminster Bobcats make a playoff push, posting 25 points in 25 games.

Costantino also added two goals and four assists for six points in four playoff games with the Bobcats.

“When it comes to my style of play, fans can expect someone that can do anything and can play anywhere on the ice,” he said.

Looking ahead to Halifax

Costantino will now head east to join the Dalhousie Tigers, who compete in the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) conference of U SPORTS.

The program is currently preparing to play out of the brand-new Oulton-Stanish Centre, which is under construction in Halifax.

Costantino also took time to thank the people who helped him reach this point.

“I would like to thank my family, parents, grandparents and all of my coaches along the way leading up to this moment,” he said.

The Bonnyville Pontiacs thanked Costantino for his time with the organization and say they look forward to watching him continue his career at the university level.