Ferris State goalie Phil Osaer has decided to forego his senior season to sign with the St. Louis Blues organization. He was a seventh round selection (203rd overall) of the Blues in the 1999 NHL Draft, and is Ferris’ all-time leader in both goals against average (2.18) and save percentage (.916).
“This is a dream come true for me and an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” said Osaer, 21. “I’m excited about being able to chase a boyhood dream of mine although I’m going to miss everyone at Ferris State.
“[St. Louis] considers me a potential NHL prospect and that’s what kind of sold me on signing. I figured if I didn’t sign with them, then someone else might and the opportunity wouldn’t be there next season.”
Bulldogs coach Bob Daniels was understandably disappointed, but happy for Osaer.
“We’re excited about this opportunity for Phil,” said Daniels. “From a team standpoint, it’s difficult when you lose one of your top all-time goaltenders at the end of the summer and it’s an obstacle we will have to overcome.
Unfortunately for us and others, events such as these are occurring more frequently in college hockey.”
Osaer, a native of Livonia, Mich., was a second team All-CCHA selection last season after going 9-12-3 with a 2.36 GAA and a .909 save percentage. During his three years in Big Rapids, he posted a 24-22-6 record.
