Team Maryland forward and Philadelphia native, Luke Branin was drafted this past weekend in the 3rd Round by the Powassan Dragons Jr. A Hockey Club in the 2010 Greater Metro Hockey League Entry Draft. Powassan made a trade with Elliot Lake to free up 3rd round pick in their priority selection.

Branin, a 5'10" 180 pound forward finished the season strong, ending with a 75-10-22-32-28 Scoring Line as the team made their run at a National title. Team Maryland picked up Branin this past summer from the Valley Forge Minutemen Jr. B program, which play in the MJHL. "I saw Luke play last summer in Chicago, and I knew right away he was a player for us. He provided everything we were looking for in a player and couldn't be a more perfect addition in the Team Maryland community." Stated Director of Player Personnel Nick Shackford. 

"Team Maryland is very excited for Luke and his family. Luke provides all the qualities that a winning team needs. He is a 2-way forward who is versatile and can add both offense and defense to any team. He was one of the most consistent players throughout the year and as a veteran player he provided strong leadership qualities that every program needs." Stated Head Coach and General Manager Jason Kersner.  

The GMHL will be entering its 5th year as a Junior A Hockey League. The Greater Metro Hockey League is a Junior A Tier II Hockey League comprised of 13 Junior A teams throughout the province of Ontario, Canada. Over the past five years the league has built a strong track record of moving players onto College Hockey Programs.