NIELSSON ARCIBAL
American International
So. | F | Vista, Calif

Arcibal has the skills and work ethic that could produce a spike in production in his sophomore year.

Key Statistics: It didn’t take long for Arcibal to post his first collegiate goal but scoring did not come easy the rest of the way. He played in 32 of AIC’s 35 games, producing three tallies and a team-high 11 assists, all coming in league play. He ranked fourth on the team in points and second among those in the Class of 2012. In Atlantic Hockey, Arcibal ranked 15th among rookies in points and ninth in assists. He has a good pedigree, having played for the NAHL champion Texas Tornado in 2004-05. He produced 11 goals and 15 assists in one season with the Des Moines Buccaneers of the USHL.

What He Does: Though the numbers don’t reflect it, Arcibal has a tremendous work ethic and is a two-way hockey player. He can play wing but center is his best position. Arcibal moves the puck well, he is an adept passer and he has an innate understanding of the game. Arcibal is strong on the penalty kill, but he is going to have to do better than scoring once on the power play. Also, he needs to improve his minus-24 rating.

The Bigger Picture: Arcibal played on one of AIC’s top two lines for most of his rookie season, and that should continue in future seasons. His work in the weight room has helped put some muscle on his 5-foot-9 frame. Coach Gary Wright is counting on Arcibal to pick up his offensive game and contribute some more points, especially in goal scoring. Arcibal should play a vital role as AIC looks to build on a disappointing five-win season.

AIC head coach Gary Wright on Arcibal: “We felt that he was a pretty big impact player for us. He is a guy who really comes to play. If he can get to that next level as a player, he has to develop some of his offensive skills. We are hoping that now that he has a transition year under his belt, he will continue to improve.”