J.C. Weems had no clue how much he would play for the NIU Division III men’s hockey team.

“Going into the season, I [was] not sure how much ice time to expect,” Weems said. “I know I wanted to go in and contribute as much a possible.”

Through 10 games this season, Weems has done exactly what he set out to do. Weems leads the team with eight goals and four assists.

Weems said the fact that NIU now has Division III hockey team helped his development, and it can only help the program in the future.

“I think it’s an advantage,” Weems said, “I think you’ll see NIU’s hockey program continue to develop and get better over time, especially since they have the Division III [team] for the younger players to develop more.”

Weems, a pre-athletic training major, said there are a few differences between high school and college hockey.

“Definitely speed,” Weems said. “I know the [Division II is] real fast. The D-III team is certainly faster. Everybody’s a little bit bigger. Shots are a little harder. Hits are a little bit harder. Even the mentality is a lot different: people are a little bit meaner, [and] a little bit nastier, but it’s fun. It’s a real good step up.”

Weems said as the season continues, he would like to improve some parts of his game.

“I certainly want to try and pick up my physical aspect of the game,” Weems said. “I’m not a real big hitter, but I want to throw around my body a little bit more, certainly keep putting the puck in the net, and definitely try and get more assists.”

John Lyne, NIU’s Division III hockey head coach, said Weems stepped right in and contributed.

“He’s been pretty successful from the beginning,” Lyne said. “He’s been our leading scorer, all year long, as far as goals.”

Pat Giannini, NIU’s Division III captain, said Weems fit right in on the team.

“I think he’s a great addition to the team,” Giannini said. “He’s a rookie who really stepped up and jumped into his role in the team as a player. He works hard every game always fighting for the puck, never giving up, [putting] in a hundred and ten percent out every time.”