Team Illinois 16U Su-An Cho Commits to University of St. Thomas

October 2020

The Team Illinois 16U Girls team is thrilled to announce that defenseman Su-An Cho has committed to play NCAA Division I college hockey at the University of St. Thomas.  The Tommies are coached by Tom Palkowski.  The team plays their games in the St. Thomas Ice Arena, located in beautiful Mendota Heights, MN.

The University of St. Thomas now competes in the WCHA where they will face off against other WCHA schools such as Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio State and Minnesota Duluth.

Su-An was comfortable right away at the University of St. Thomas and immediately knew it was the right fit for her. “St Thomas is an academically strong school as well as strong athletically.  I was looking for a place to grow in both areas and this is the perfect fit” Su-An said.

“Su-An is the kind of player that any coach would want on their team. She is an extremely hard-working defenseman who is consistent on both sides of the puck,” noted Tom Boyles Team Illinois 16U Head Coach.  We are very happy for her and her decision to play with St. Thomas and look forward to watching her grow at the collegiate level.”

This is Su-An’s first year at Team Illinois.  She began playing hockey when she was six years old growing up in Madison, Alabama.  Instead of billeting with families in more traditional hockey states, Su-An chose to stay at home and spend long weekend traveling for practices and games.  Numerous flights and road trips were a big part of her life and made possible with the support and sacrifice of her family.

My friends and teammates also had a big part in this success.  They were always next to me, ready to assist and comfort me whenever needed.  They never abandoned me and for that I am truly grateful.

“There are so many people who contributed to my success.  Coach John Schiavo has been one of the best coaches I have had.  He continually encouraged me, supported me and helped me improve amidst his busy schedule.  Coach Joe Bova Conti has always been a big influence on me.  He was a strong support system when I first started playing AAA hockey.  Coach Chris Luongo was the reason I started playing travel hockey from Alabama.  He inspired me and taught me all the basics and fundamentals. Coach Bill Bellmore always made sure to open up any opportunities for me and continued to support me wherever I was.  Coach Mike Fairbanks and Coach Martin Kubaliak had coached me back home and made sure I was always included in any and all practices and clinics.  At last, I am also thankful for Coach Tom Boyles for taking me under his wing and supporting me through one of the last pieces of this journey. All of the coaching staff here in Illinois have provided me with so many opportunities and aid over these last months.   I am just incredibly grateful for it all,’ noted Su-An.

We wish Su-An the very best.

Congratulations.