Toronto native Matthew Virgilio brings a gritty, shot-blocking presence to New Haven, fortifying the Bulldogs’ defensive zone with the physical edge honed through his major junior career.
The Bulldogs have an addition to their blue line! Matthew Virgilio unveiled his commitment to Yale today via social media. Through 62 regular season contests in Moncton, Virgilio earned 19 points (4 goals + 15 assists) and a team fifth 50 penalty minutes. Last year with the OHL's Niagara Ice Dogs, Virgilio finished third with 74 penalty minutes in 64 games. The Toronto native's heavy style of play allows him to clog lanes and eat pucks while throwing his weight around.
If Virgilio does depart for Yale at the conclusion of this campaign, he could provide some much needed assistance to the Bulldog blue line. Yale finished tenth out of twelve ECAC teams and blocked a conference low 339 shots last season. For now, looks to help Moncton extend their season.
Virgilio and the Wildcats are in the QMJHL Finals, competing for a Gilles-Courteau Trophy and a spot in the 2026 Memorial Cup Tournament. Game one of the finals is Thursday, May 8 at 5pm CT against Chicoutimi Saguenéens.