Waterloo Black Hawks defenseman Ian McCoshen, one of the top players eligible for the 2013 NHL Draft in June, will continue his career at Boston College next fall.

McCoshen was rated an A skater on NHL Central Scouting's preliminary players to watch list in the United States Hockey League.

In addition to Boston College, the 6-foot-2.5, 207-pound defenseman was also being courted by the University of Nebraska-Omaha, University of Minnesota-Duluth, Ohio State University and the University of North Dakota.

"We have a good freshman class coming in [at Boston College]," McCoshen told NHL.com via email. "When I visited the guys at BC, they really opened up to me and I was able to see how great they are and how fine the hockey program is, as well."

The Eagles have captured five national ice hockey championships (1949, 2001, 2008, 2010 and 2012).

"When the tour was almost done, it was almost surreal that I was even there and it made me realize how fortunate I am," he continued. "The excitement my family and I have about this decision is incredible."

McCoshen was one of only five players in the USHL ranked on Central Scouting's A list. His teammate in Waterloo, forward Taylor Cammarata, is a C-rated skater on Central Scouting's list. Cammarata is headed to the University of Minnesota in the fall of 2013 and Black Hawks goalie Eamon McAdam (B rated) is headed to the University of Penn State.

"He's a kid that I would want as my son," Waterloo coach P.K. O'Handley said of McCoshen. "He's very aware that he needs to continue to work on his game every day but his competitiveness is off the charts. The sky is the limit for him."

McCoshen had eight goals, 20 points, 43 penalty minutes and a plus-4 rating in 55 games last season with Waterloo. The native of Faribault, Minn., has one goal, four points and a plus-13 rating in eight games this season for the Black Hawks.

"He's definitely an attractive pro prospect and you can see his game will translate well to being a pro …he has ice in his veins," NHL Central Scouting's David Gregory told NHL.com. "He handles all situations well and uses his strength. Once he starts to understand how much more he can dominate with his size and strength, he'll improve even more."

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