Drafted in the fourth round last Spring by Red Deer, Austin had several options in his hockey future besides the Western League. Many considered him the top 2018 class college prospect and a cinch to be drafted this Spring and play in the USHL as early as next season. 

Pratt's decision came on the heels of him likely not being selected to the US National Development Program in Ann Arbor (Note: 10 players committed last week to the program including 3 Minnesotans - former teammates Grant Mismash and Scott Reedy, and Lakeville's Nate Knoepke).

YHH caught up to Austin Sunday to discuss his decision. When asked what was the deciding factor to jump to the W, he said, "there was not one factor, I just felt that Red Deer was the right choice and that my game is more of the Major Junior style. After Nationals, I sat down with my family and decided what route would be best for me."

When asked what routes he explored he simply said, "I took my time and explored everything. In the off-season I visited, skated and traveled with the teams I was considering. I put a lot of time in to make the right decision for me. During the season at SSM, I concentrated on my team and our goal to win the U16 National title."

We chatted about those that helped him along the way to get to this moment in his young hockey career. "A lot of people have helped me along the way. Bernie McBain for my early development, my brother and my sister for all of their sacrifices, my parents for their support and my coaches at SSM."

YHH asked Austin if there would be anything that he would miss about leaving SSM after two seasons. "I have had a great two years at Shattuck. They have helped prepare me for the next level, I will really miss my SSM brothers!"