Congratulations to 2000-born Premier Defender, Daniil Starinsky on his recent signing with the Belarus 18U National Team for the 2018-19 Season

The Boston Bandits organization is proud to announce that Daniil Starinsky has chosen to continue his hockey career with the Belarus National Team next season. The 2000-born defender was born in Gomel, Belarus, traveling to the States in 2017 to join the Bandits Premier squad. Starinsky quickly adjusted to junior hockey and become one of the most reliable and confident guys on the team. 

One of the reasons Starinsky has had so much success with the Bandits this season is his consistency. He is extremely adept at shutting down offensive breaks in the neutral zone and transitioning into a play going the other way. This season Starinsky had 2 goals and 10 assists for the Bandits Premier team in their inaugural season with the USPHL. The Premier team wrapped up their season last weekend with a tough playoff loss to the South Shore Kings.

According to Bandits Premier Coach Jay Punsky, “Daniil was a pleasure to coach this season. He is a very teachable player and has great instincts, regarding what it takes to compete at an elite hockey level.” Starinsky is expected to be a difference maker on the Belarus National team and will begin training with them this summer for the 2018-19 season. 

The Belarus men's national 18U ice hockey team is controlled by the Belarus Ice Hockey Federation, a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). The team represents Belarus at the IIHF World 18U Championships. The IIHF is a worldwide governing body for ice hockey. It is based in Zurich, Switzerland, and has 76 members. It manages international ice hockey tournaments and maintains the IIHF World Ranking. Belarus is currently ranked 9th in the world.

The Bandits continue to provide players from around the world, like Starinsky, the opportunity to play in front of hundreds of college and pro scouts. When asked about joining the Belarus National team, Starinsky replied, “It is an honor for me to return home and play with the Belarus National team next year. I’m extremely grateful to the Bandits and Coach Punsky for helping me elevate my game this season.”

The Boston Bandits would like to congratulate Daniil and his entire family for this accomplishment. Daniil with be an enormous addition to the Belarus National U18 team for the 2018-19 season.