Bombers Barr Signs With University of Arkansas

The Long Beach Bombers are proud to announce that goaltender, Max Barr, has committed to the University of Arkansas (ACHA Division 1) to become a member of the class of 2021. The Wilmington, Massachusetts native played one season for the Bombers, compiling a record of 16-1. His 2.31 Goals Against Average and .908 Save Percentage were vast improvements over his past two seasons. The “Super Vet” played an astounding six seasons of junior hockey, and will not look to make the next step up the hockey ladder. 

The twenty-one year old recorded 5 Shutouts in 2016-2017, with his lone loss coming at the hands of the Thorne Cup participants - Valencia Flyers, back in mid-October. He went on to win his next 11 starts, consecutively. On October 27, Barr made a personal season-high 34 saves while shutting out the San Diego Sabers, in Long Beach.

University of Arkansas Head Coach, Brian Gallini, stated, “We had an opportunity to watch the Bombers at the Vegas Showcase and their playoff run.  It was clear that their style of play overlapped with the style we embrace.  We then had an opportunity to interact and watch particular Bomber players, including Max—who reflected a level of professionalism and maturity that exceeds his peers.  We were impressed, and remain so, with the caliber of player and person the Bombers both attract and develop.  We are excited to welcome Max to our program and anticipate that he will make an immediate impact on our historic goal to become the first SEC school to make the Division I National Tournament.”

Bombers Head Coach & General Manager, Chris White, commented, “Max spent six years playing junior hockey, with the hope of continuing his career at the collegiate level. He came into Long Beach and established himself with a 16-1 record. We are extremely happy that he has been provided that opportunity by the Razorbacks program. They brought Max in for a visit to see the campus, facilities, and meet some of the players and staff. I think Max is very comfortable with his decision to play at University of Arkansas, excited about the overall experience, and will hopefully leave his mark on their program.”

Max Barr’s Player Profile Page:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=178431

University of Arkansas Hockey Press Release:

http://arhockey.westernchl.com/?p=3589

Q & A with Max Barr:

You spent six years playing junior hockey. Tell us about your final season in Long Beach. Were there any new or unique things you noticed in your time there?

Overall, my time in California was amazing. The lifestyle is so much different than the east coast and Boston, and I wouldn't trade this year for anything. Learning how to surf was definitely the coolest thing outside of the hockey.

Your final season of junior hockey was spent living in Huntington Beach with the Piekarski family. What was that experience like?

Definitely the best billet family in the WSHL, if not all of junior hockey. Deena and John really made it feel like home, and Jake and and Ryan always made it interesting in the house.

You took a visit to Fayetteville in February. What stood out to you, that got you excited to give them your commitment for the next four seasons?

Coach Gallini's plans for the team for the future was really what stood out to me most. The boys on the team were really supportive and helped me feel welcomed immediately.

Were there any individual (or team) achievements or memories that stuck out from the 2016-2017 season?

Finishing the regular season with the most points in the WSHL was definitely a highlight of the year.

What are some things you are most looking forward to, as you head into your Freshman year at University of Arkansas?

I can't wait to get onto the ice with the boys and get classes started. Also living with Cal and Konnor will be very fun as we build on our friendship that we had this year (Spoiler Alert).