James van Riemsdyk has decided to forgo his final two years at the University of New Hampshire and will join the Philadelphia Phantoms, the AHL affiliate of the Flyers. He was the second overall pick in 2007, signed an amateur tryout to play for the rest of this season and signed an entry-level deal with the Flyers for next year.

“Obviously, this is a thrill of a lifetime,” the 19-year-old forward said Wednesday in a statement. “This is a day I have been dreaming about ever since I got drafted by the Flyers. Just to have this opportunity is something I am really grateful for.”

Van Riemsdyk led UNH with 17 goals and 23 assists this season.

Tags: AHL, college hockey, Flyers, James van Riemsdyk, New Hampshire, NHL, Phantoms, Philadelphia