(Walpole, MA) -- Walpole Express defenseman Jide Idowu, who played on the 2008-2009 Jr. B team, was chosen to play in the USA Hockey U17 Select Festival that will take place at the ESL Sports Centre in Rochester, N.Y., July 6 – 13, 2009. Idowu made the festival after competing in the Florida State Festival and Southeast Regional Festival during April and May.

Idowu was one of the top defenseman on the Express B team that this year won the Terry Scott Cup, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record. That team made the Express’ first-ever trip to the Tier III Jr. B Nationals.

“Jide had a strong season and turned himself into a really good hockey player,” said Express GM and Coach Tony Dalessio. “He bought into some changes that Mark (Kumpel) and I thought needed to be made in his game and he worked hard to make himself better both on and off the ice. As a result, Jide has started to attract some interest from colleges and his exposure to Festival Camp will be a great experience.”

During the regular season, Idowu notched six goals and 17 assists in 38 games for a +23 rating. He also was an alternate on the MJHL North All-Star team. The ’92 Idowu stands 6’2 and weighs 187 lbs. He’ll be back in an Express uniform next season.