Zach Filak Commits To University of Vermont
Overager Zach Filak has committed to the University of Vermont for the 2025-26 season.
The NCAA’s Division I council voted Nov. 7 to permit former Canadian Hockey League players to compete for Division I schools in the U.S. starting next Aug. 1. Previously, CHL participation ended players’ eligibility.
“I believe attending the University of Vermont offers a tremendous opportunity to further my education while pursuing my goal of playing professional hockey,” shares Filak.
“Vermont’s strong hockey program combined with its commitment to academic excellence, provides the ideal environment for me to grow both on and off the ice. The school has a rich hockey tradition and a reputation for fostering student-athletes who succeed at the highest levels. Making it the perfect place to continue my development and work toward achieving my professional aspirations.”
The Vermont Catamounts men’s ice hockey team is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I college ice hockey program that represents the University of Vermont. The Catamounts are a member of Hockey East, joining in 2005 after competing in ECAC Hockey from 1974 to 2005.
Dylan Seca, Sting General Manager, is excited for Zach’s next chapter.
“We are thrilled for Zach and the Filak family. He’s been a constant professional during his 4+ years in Sarnia. It’s been an absolute pleasure to watch him turn into the player he is today. He is well respected in both the locker room and the Sarnia-Lambton community, which speaks volumes on his character and commitment to our program. We wish him all the best in this next chapter!”
The Sting signed Filak in May 2020 after being drafted in the 9th round, 163rd overall in the in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection. Zach currently tallies 59 goals and 75 assists over his 226 regular season games.