Stephen Chen Commits to Tufts University
Stephen Chen has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey at Tufts University beginning in the 2026-27 season.
The Beijing, China native posted 17 wins with a 2.89 GAA and .919 save percentage this season. His relationship with the Tufts coaching staff dates back to last season, with head coach Pat Norton extending an invitation to campus in January before presenting Chen with an offer following the visit.
“I first connected with Tufts’ coaching staff last season. They expressed their interest in potentially bringing me in after watching me play with the Rangers, as well as my experience representing China’s national team in international tournaments. Coach Norton reached out again in January of this year and offered me a tour of the campus. The conversation continued from the visit and they presented me with an offer this week.”
The Jumbos were a compelling destination on both ends. Tufts has reached back-to-back NESCAC championship games under Norton, and the university’s academic reputation matched exactly what Chen was looking for in a college home.
“On the hockey side, Tufts has recently gone to back-to-back NESCAC championship games, so I knew the program was already strong and would continue to become even stronger. Academically, Tufts is one of the most selective institutions in the country, which is exactly what I looked for.”
This commitment represents the culmination of a deliberate journey back to college hockey. Chen attended Brown University before returning to the junior ranks with the Rangers, and the organization gave him the platform he needed to find his way back to the NCAA level. He credited Coach Rich DeCaprio and assistant coach Brian Bowen for making the most of that opportunity.
“The Rangers organization has helped me tremendously in my development and journey back to college hockey. Coach DeCaprio afforded me the opportunity to both show and further sharpen my on-ice skills, something for which I will forever be grateful. I decided to sign here again for this season because I knew Coach DeCaprio would not only recruit talented players, but also a team filled with great people. The team’s record and chemistry this season have proven my belief to be accurate.”
With Tufts locked in, Chen is fully focused on what the Rangers can accomplish before the season is over.
“With the playoffs right around the corner, I truly believe we have a special group that can accomplish a special result. Though the path towards the Dineen Cup will certainly be challenging, I fully believe we can finish among one of, if not the best, teams in the league.”
Congratulations to Stephen Chen and his family on his commitment to Tufts University. The Boston Jr. Rangers look forward to supporting his continued development as he prepares for the next level.