A former St. Thomas hockey player who coach Jeff Boeser considers like a son is pursuing his dream of playing professional hockey. 2013 All-American defenseman Michael Krieg plans to play in the ECHL for the Orlando Solar Bears, a minor league affiliate of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The ECHL is a step up for Krieg; the league has been the breeding ground for NHL stars such as Los Angeles Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick, former Dallas Stars forward Rich Peverley and former Minnesota Wild forward Derek Boogaard. But it’s also a league Boeser thinks will fit Krieg.

“Michael Krieg, he’s just one of my most special players I’ve coached as a head coach because he’s such a good kid,” Boeser said. “He doesn’t have a lot to say but when he does speak up guys listen.”

Krieg said his decision to pursue a career in hockey was something he’s been thinking of for a while.

“In my senior year I thought about what I wanted to do in the future, I wanted to keep playing hockey and I thought I might as well give it a shot.” Krieg said.

A part of the recruiting class that won three MIAC championships in a row, Krieg had to contend with injuries near the end of his St. Thomas career. After an early season injury caused him to miss seven games, Krieg battled back and was an invaluable resource for the Tommies this past season.

With ample experience in the MIAC, Krieg thinks the ECHL will be a step up in talent.

“There’s a lot of good Division-III hockey, and it’s been getting so much better over the last couple years. (The ECHL is) going to be a step up but it’s not going to be too crazy.” Krieg said. “Right now I’m just doing whatever it takes to hopefully find a role on the team.”

Boeser thinks Krieg will thrive in the new environment.

“Michael’s got one game, and I don’t think whatever level he plays at is going to change that. As long as the coach knows what Michael is about, he’ll have success.” Boeser said. “He’s going to do well, he’s worked hard this summer. He’s as healthy as I’ve ever seen him.”

Krieg’s talent will be in good hands. The Solar Bears announced their new coach, former United States Hockey League Coach of the Year Anthony Noreen, this past June.

“This guy likes (D-III) guys, and he was looking for somebody just the way Michael plays. He’s already got some big bruisers, but he needed a defenseman who could get the puck out of the zone.” Boeser said.

Boeser, though happy for Krieg, said the loss of the defenseman will leave a hole at St. Thomas.

“He wouldn’t tell anybody but he was never himself after he got hurt last year, but he would never complain,” Boeser said. “He’s the ultimate team guy…everybody in our league knew who Michael Krieg was and we’re going to miss him.”

Jake Remes can be reached at reme7110@stthomas.edu.