Derek Richards has made the decision to play at D-2 powerhouse, Mercyhurst University, after his graduation next spring. The attackman has been playing on Hilton Varsity squad since his freshman year and hit the century mark for points this year after posting a 21g-39a junior season. His career totals after three years are 42g-58a.

Last season he was named to the Monroe County first team list (D-3) and off-season has played for the Upstate Rising Senior team, the Brine National High School All-American team and has been playing for the Blaze Travel team for three seasons.

After multiple talks with Mercyhurst Head Coach Coach Chris Ryan Derek felt strongly about the opportunity to play for a National Championship while learning at a strong academic institution. Although he admits that he fielded inquires from a a number of other schools, Derek felt the Mercyhurst was a great fit and says his is looking forward to the challenge of playing at the next level.