Jimmy Hayes: Celebrated his 2011 Beanpot-winning goal for BC. AP photoDorchester’s Jimmy Hayes has decided to forgo his senior hockey season at Boston College and head to the American Hockey League. The 20 year-old St. Ann’s alum is now playing for the Icehogs of Rockford, IL, an affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks.

After helping the Eagles win the Beanpot just over a month ago, Jimmy and his teammates —including younger brother Kevin— moved forward with their ultimate goal of winning the NCAA Championship. Boston College was the third seed heading into the tournament with a 30-7-1 record and was matched up against Colorado College in the first round.

But Colorado College pulled off the upset against Boston College on March 25, defeating the Eagles 8-4. The dream of another title for Jimmy as a member of the Eagles was cut short and left him with a major decision to make about his future and his career.

Three days later, the decision made, Jimmy left Boston for Illinois. He accepted a contract with the Rockford Icehogs of the AHL, which means Hayes cannot compete in NCAA athletics anymore.
Jimmy has played in three games for the Icehogs since leaving Boston College. So far, he hasn’t recorded a point, but with four more games remaining for the Icehogs, Hayes hopes to contribute as much as he can for the remainder of the season.

Hayes is coming off his most productive season as an Eagle. He put the puck in the back of the net a career high 20 times and had 12 assists. His brother, Kevin, 18, is a freshman at the Heights and has also been drafted by the Blackhawks. He is expected to return to BC team next season.