CAPITAL GAINS: Pair of Colorado natives, Providence Capitals standouts use EHL as development path to NCAA hockey commitments
Josh Coderre and Mason Rudrud, two star players during the 2024-25 EHL season, are off to play NCAA Division III hockey next season at Rivier University.
Coderre, an ’04 out of Denver, was a two-year captain for Providence. In his sophomore season, Coderre outperformed his prior season by seven points and added four goals in the team’s final four run. With 100 total games played in the EHL, Coderre
registered 21 goals and 29 assists for 50 points.
“I’m super excited to see Joshua play NCAA hockey at Rivier University,” said Capitals head coach Jeff Perrault. “They are getting a complete 200-foot player. Coderre was my captain for a reason. As a coach, I trusted Joshua in absolutely every situation the game throws at you.”
Back home, Coderre skated for the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders and
Colorado Thunderbirds.
Rudrud, an ’04 out of Vail, spent two years with Providence. In his rookie season, he tallied 11 goals and 12 assists for 23 points in 46 games. Despite dealing with injury in the latter half of his age-out season in 2024-25, Rudrud still finished with 44 points in 88 games played.
“I’m extremely happy for Mason to get his NCAA opportunity,” said Perreault. “Mason had to overcome
a few injuries to earn this chance. He’s sneaky talented and oozes size and skill. I’m excited to see the point production he creates. Rivier will be thrilled to see what Rudrud brings to the table – size, speed, and skill. It’ll be fun to watch.”
In Colorado, Rudrud played for the Vail Mountaineers, RoughRiders and Thunderbirds.
More at CORubberHockey.com and ColoradoHockey.net!
Josh Coderre (left) and Mason Rudrud, two Colorado natives and teammates in 2024-25 with the EHL’s Providence Capitals, will remain teammates in 2025-26 as both are off to play NCAA Division III hockey with Rivier University in Nashua, N.H. Photos/Dan Hickling/Hickling Images
San Jose native, Jr. Sharks alum Miller heading up to Alaska to start NCAA Division I career
The NAHL’s St. Cloud Norsemen have announced that defenseman Kyle Miller has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Alaska.
A third-year veteran of the Norsemen, Miller has served as one of the top blueliners in the league. During the 2024-25 regular season, the San Jose native ranked second among defensemen with 53 assists and 66 total points for the regular season. He featured a league-leading 27 power-play assists and found the back of the net 13 times this past season.
The 20-year-old played a critical role for the Norsemen on the scoresheet, leading the team with 66 points, notching 1.12 points per game. This season, he was named NAHL Defenseman of the Month for February. Miller put on a thriller during the month of love and dished out
Jr. Coyotes standout, Flagstaff native Smith signs with WHL’s Wild ‘to give it my absolute all’
The WHL’s Wenatchee Wild has announced that 2007-born defenseman Drew Smith has signed with the organization.
A Flagstaff native, Smith comes to the Wild from the Jr. Coyotes program, playing most recently for the club’s 18U AAA team.
“This has been my dream my whole life to play juniors, espe-
Drew Smith has worn Jr. Coyotes colors for the past four seasons. Photo/ James Peszek
cially in the WHL,” said Smith. “The change in the (NCAA) rules obviously helped a ton, being able to play in the WHL and then go to college. The WHL and how much they appreciate their players, everything they do for us – I’m stoked. I couldn’t be more excited to play in Wenatchee.”
Smith has played for the Jr. Coyotes for the past four seasons.
Kyle Miller starred during the 2024-25 season with the NAHL’s St. Cloud Norsemen. Photo/ St. Cloud Norsemen
four goals and 11 assists over nine games for St. Cloud. The ‘04 skater was also named to the Central Division team at the 2025 Top Prospects Tournament.
Last season, the San Jose Jr. Sharks graduate recorded nine goals and 33 assists. He featured a plus-18 rating over the 59 games. In his debut season, he laced up in 18 contests before returning to his home state of California for the rest of the year.
Miller shared his excitement about joining the Alaska program.
“I am extremely proud and excited to announce my commitment to play Division I ice hockey for the University of Alaska-Fairbanks. A huge thank you to all of my coaches, teammates, friends, and family for their support in helping me get to this point.”
Jr. Coyotes product, Phoenix native Suter inks ‘dream come true’ deal with WHL’s Blades
The WHL’s Saskatoon Blades have announced the signing of 2010-born forward Max Suter.
The Phoenix product was drafted by the Blades in the first round (seventh overall) of the 2025 U.S. Priority Draft.
“Being signed into the WHL by the Saskatoon Blades is a dream come true,” said Suter. “Hearing my name
called is a memory I will have forever. I am excited to a part of this great organization and cannot wait to play for the Blades.”
Suter scored five goals and one assist in five games at the John Reid Memorial Tournament last January. He registered a pair of goals and assists in four games with the Jr. Coyotes’ 14U AAA team.
Max Suter saw his game develop with the Jr. Coyotes. Photo/James Peszek
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Words from the publisher...
How is it already the middle of June?
As I write this, Sam Reinhart just scored early in the first period of Game
6 of the Stanley Cup Final to give the Florida Panthers a 1-0 lead over the Edmonton Oilers.
I love hockey in June because it’s always the last series of the NHL season and the one that decides the Stanley Cup. And then... that long wait until the next season.
Like I have said in this space before, yes, we all love the game of hockey.
That’s never been a doubt in anyone’s mind.
Matt Mackinder
These summer months give us time to sit back and recharge, you know? Take that family time and make memories away from the rink and away from hockey. It’s all worth it. Trust me.
Our middle child is off to college on a bowling scholarship in the fall and it seems like the last 12-
13 years flew by in a blur, probably because they did.
You don’t get back any
family time missed for whatever reason. Make the most of it. Quality over quantity. Remember that.
Yes, we all get busy with work, social lives and just life in general. It happens. But make that time to
create those fun memories with your family.
And remember thisthere are 40 hours in a work week and 48 hours in a weekend.
As for Rubber, we’re here 24/7/365. Not going anywhere.
We can’t do this without you, either. You are a valued component in all of this. Always have been.
Want to join the program? Call/text (248) 890-3944 or email me at mackindermedia@ yahoo.com.
-- Matt
in ‘24-25
Liam Lane is stopping pucks
for the EHL’s New York Apple Core. Photo/ Edward Jacobs
Heading West
In recent days, several California natives have signed to play for WHL clubs next season.
The Wenatchee Wild has announced that 2007-born forward Rui Han has signed with the organization.
A native of San Diego, Han was originally the Victoria Royals’ firstround selection (seventh overall) in the 2022 WHL U.S. Priority Draft.
The Red Deer Rebels have announced that recently-acquired forward Zane Torre has signed with the team.
Torre was acquired by the Rebels
from the Seattle Thunderbirds last month.
The Ladera Ranch native was selected by Seattle in the second round (43rd overall) at the 2023 WHL U.S. Priority Draft.
The Moose Jaw Warriors have announced that goaltender Kyle Jones has signed with the organization.
“We are excited to sign Kyle for the upcoming season,” said GM Jason Ripplinger.
Jones, a product of Bakersfield, was drafted 40th overall by the Warriors at the 2022 U.S. Priority Draft.
Rui Han
Kyle Jones
Zane Torre
Junior hockey drafts kickstart 2025-26 seasons
NA3HL Entry Draft - April 30
CA
2nd round, 46th overall - Ben Dickson, F, Golden State Elite Eagles 18U, Long Beach Sharks
2nd round, 48th overall - Carter Lehmann, F, Lake Tahoe Lakers (USPHL), El Paso Rhinos
2nd round, 50th overall - Jackson Dougherty, F, San Jose Jr. Sharks 18U, New Jersey Titans
3rd round, 79th overall
- Luke Svircic, F, San Jose Jr. Sharks 18U, Austin Ice Bats
3rd round, 103rd overall - Cedric Hume, D, San Diego Saints 18U, Atlanta Capitals 4th round, 143rd overall - Michiel Leenders, F, St. John Bosco HS, Sheridan Hawks
CO
1st round, 10th overall - Parker Brinner, F, Regis Jesuit HS, El Paso Rhinos 2nd round, 44th overall - Boone Kindseth, F, Colorado Rampage 18U, Helena Bighorns
3rd round, 84th overall - Damen Baxter, G, Colorado Thunderbirds 18U, Yellowstone Quake 3rd round, 100th overall - Jacob Larned, F, Littleton Hawks 18U, Bozeman Icedogs
NM
1st round, 11th overall - Jackson Thomas, F, New Mexico Ice Wolves 18U, New Hampshire Jr. Mountain Kings
NV
4th round, 151st overall - Matthew Anderson, F, Rose City Pats 18U, New Hampshire Jr. Mountain Kings
4th round, 149th overall - Jacob Brumm, G, Henderson Force (USPHL), Willmar WarHawks
UT
2nd round, 88th overall - Junsang Park, F, Iron County Yeti (USPHL), New Jersey Titans
USHL Draft (Phase I) - May 5
AZ
5th round, 72nd overall - Trevin Vargo, F, Gilbert, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Waterloo Black Hawks 12th round, 171st overall - Kade McLaughlin, D, Jr. Coyotes 15U, Tri-City Storm
CA
1st round, 12th overallEthan Sung, F, Pasadena, Shattuck-St. Mary’s 16U, Sioux Falls Stampede 3rd round, 43rd overallDrew Larioza, F, San Jose, Culver Academy 16U, Dubuque Fighting Saints
4th round, 46th overallEnzo DiDomenicantonio, F, Los Angeles, Honeybaked 15U, Lincoln Stars
15U, Lincoln Stars
CO
5th round, 71st overall - Grady Anaka, F, Okanagan 15O, Madison Capitols 6th round, 77th overall - Kaden Mote, F, Denver, Okanagan 15O, Chicago Steel 6th round, 84th overall - Colton Lien, F, Highlands Ranch, Okanagan 15O, Fargo Force
8th round, 106th overall - Brock Stevenson, F, Denver, Okanagan 15O, Sioux City Musketeers
Bay Gamblers
5th round, 72nd overall - Trevin Vargo, F, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Waterloo Black Hawks
6th round, 88th overall - Leland Dulac, D, Lawndale, Seacoast Performance Academy 15U, Dubuque Fighting Saints
8th round, 109th overall - Hunter Kapen, F, Santa Monica, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Green Bay Gamblers
9th round, 123rd overall - Kaeden Tate, G, Huntington Beach, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Des Moines Buccaneers 9th round, 128th overall - Hudson Welsome, D, Mission Viejo, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Sioux City Musketeers 10th round, 143rd overall - Jordan Tran, F, Aliso Viejo, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Sioux City Musketeers
10th round, 147th overall - Cole Hajt, F, El Segundo, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Sioux Falls Stampede 12th round, 180th overall - Daniel Greenbaum, F, Anaheim, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Lincoln Stars 14th round, 209th overall - Jaemin Park, F, San Jose, Shattuck-St. Mary’s
11th round, 154th overall - Aaron Lenarz, G, Okanagan 15O, Green Bay Gamblers 12th round, 173rd overall - Tyler Murchmore, D, Castle Rock, Okanagan 15O, Sioux City Musketeers 13th round, 184th overall - Matthew Leaming, F, Colorado Springs, Colorado Rampage 15U, Green
14th round, 206th overall - Oliver Parent, F, Colorado Springs, Colorado Rampage 15U, Sioux Falls Stampede 15th round, 230th overall - Cooper Martin, D, Windsor, Okanagan 15O, Green Bay Gamblers
USHL Draft (Phase II) - May 6
CA
1st round, 3rd overall - Nolan Caffey, F, Belmont, Shattuck-St. Mary’s Prep, Des Moines Buccaneers 4th round, 59th overall - Thomas Corneillie, D, Los Gatos, Fairbanks Ice Dogs (NAHL), Cedar Rapids RoughRiders
4th round, 60th overall - Owen Crudale, G, San Diego, Philadelphia Rebels (NAHL), Dubuque Fighting Saints 6th round, 103rd overall - Harout Arutyunyan, F, Los Angeles, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 18U, Lincoln Stars 7th round, 117th overall - Duke Gentzler, F, Redondo Beach, AnchorContinued on Page 13
Continued from Page 12 age Wolverines (NAHL), Cedar Rapids RoughRiders
7th round, 124th overall - Jake Stuart, F, Manhattan Beach, U.S. NTDP Under-18 Team, Muskegon Lumberjacks
9th round, 145th overall - Trace Frieden, F, Los Angeles, Cowichan Valley Capitals (BCHL), Des Moines Buccaneers
11th round, 184th overall - Niko Julian, F, West Hills, Okanagan 16U, Sioux Falls Stampede
13th round, 205th overall - Max Holland, D, Mission Viejo, Culver Academy Prep, Des Moines Buccaneers 14th round, 232nd overall - Isaiah Castro-Villegas, D, San Jose, North Iowa Bulls (NAHL), Lincoln Stars 15th round, 240th overall - Lucas Cilan Hjorth Jensen, F, Frontier LA Selects 18U, Sioux City Musketeers
CO
7th round, 113th overall - Charlie Kresl, F, Denver, Vernon Vipers (BCHL), Omaha Lancers
10th round, 170th overall - Logan Smith, D, Columbine, Okanagan 16U, Dubuque Fighting Saints 11th round, 184th overall - Niko Julian, F, Okanagan 16U, Sioux Falls Stampede
WHL U.S. Priority Draft - May 8
AZ
1st round, seventh overall - Max Suter, F, Phoenix, Jr. Coyotes 14U, Saskatoon Blades
2nd round, 29th overall - Drayden Demas, D, Peoria, Jr. Coyotes 14U, Everett Silvertips
2nd round, 40th overall - Landon Jackson, D, Phoenix, Jr. Coyotes 14U, Prince George Cougars
2nd round, 45th overall - Derek Langkow, F, Scottsdale, Jr. Coyotes 14U, Moose Jaw Warriors
CA
1st round, 9th overall - Drew McDevitt, F, Tustin, California Goldrush 14U, Kelowna Rockets
1st round, 11th overall - Riley Wolkove, F, Los Angeles, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 14U, Tri-City Americans
1st round, 15th overall - Collin Kim, D, Azusa, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Kamloops Blazers
2nd round, 33rd overall - Chase Gill, D, Seal Beach, California Goldrush 14U, Kamloops Blazers
2nd round, 39th overall - Ryan Lee, F, Cypress, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 14U, Kelowna Rockets
CO
13th round, 213th overall - Brady Smith, D, Littleton, Taft School, Madison Capitols
14th round, 226th overall - Trey Fredenberg, F, Loveland, Stillwater Area HS, Waterloo Black Hawks 17th round, 266th overall - Luke Host, D, Columbine, Okanagan 16U, Green Bay Gamblers
19th round, 306th overall - Ben Rakowski, F, Greenwood Village, Colorado Grit (NAHL), Youngstown Phantoms
NV 7th round, 127th overall - Joc Bukovec, F, Vegas Jr. Golden Knights 16U, Omaha Lancers
13th round, 208th overall - Jackson Lackas, F, Las Vegas, Chippewa Steel (NAHL), Tri-City Storm
6th round, 137th overall - Adam Benassaya, F, Manhattan Beach, Shattuck-St. Mary’s 14U, Medicine Hat Tigers
10th round, 219th overall - Stellan Gasseau, F, Long Beach, Chicago Reapers 14U, Portland Winterhawks
10th round, 225th overall - Peter Budaj, F, Lake Forest, California Goldrush 14U, TriCity Americans
10th round, 228th overall - Jack Urtel, G, Irvine, California Goldrush 14U, Calgary Hitmen
CO
6th round, 136th overall - Trey Knudson, D, Thornton, Okanagan 14U, Calgary Hitmen
CA
2nd round, 21st overall - Grayson Turk, D, Chino, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 16U, Grand Junction River Hawks 2nd round, 26th overall - Mattias Allan, F, San Clemente, Boston Hockey Academy 16U, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights
2nd round, 37th overall - Wesley Ryoo, F, San Diego, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 16U, Jersey Hitmen
3rd round, 43rd overall - Aidan Yu, F, Baldwin Park, Wenatchee Wild Hockey Academy U17 Prep, Pueblo Bulls
1st round, 10th overall - Jake Mintenko, F, Colorado Springs, Colorado Rampage 14U, Wenatchee Wild
1st round, 23rd overall - Cash Whitmore, F, Parker, Colorado Thunderbirds 14U, Lethbridge Hurricanes
2nd round, 26th overall - Keegan Brown, F, Englewood, Colorado Thunderbirds 14U, Calgary Hitmen
2nd round, 37th overall - Blake Redpath, D, Denver, Colorado Thunderbirds 14U, Tri-City Americans
WHL Prospects Draft - May 8
AZ
8th round, 184th overall - Austin Russo, D, Gilbert, Bishop Kearney Selects 14U, Everett Silvertips
9th round, 185th overall - Owen LaCoste, F, Chandler, Jr. Coyotes 14U, Penticton Vees
CA
NCDC Draft (Phase I) - May 15
AZ
1st round, 12th overall - Masen McCosh, D, Glendale, Arizona Jr. Sun Devils 18U, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights
7th round, 128th overall - Tanner Penn, D, Mission Viejo, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 15U, West Chester Wolves
CO
1st round, 8th overall - Kayden Hill, F, Colorado Springs, Colorado Thunderbirds 15U, West Chester Wolves 2nd round, 34th overall - Caden Di-
Continued on Page 14
Continued from Page 13
onne, F, Denver, Sioux Falls Power 16U, Rockets Hockey Club
3rd round, 53rd overall - Landon Palik, F, Arvada, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 15U, Utah Outliers
4th round, 74th overall - Gavin Wakeland, D, Denver, Buffalo Jr. Sabres 16U, Utica Jr. Comets
5th round, 81st overall - Cole Palik, G, Arvada, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 16U, Grand Junction River Hawks 7th round, 127th overall - William Lutze, F, Denver, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 16U, Thunder Hockey Club
12th round, 222nd overall - Tyler Fuicelli, G, Superior, Bishop’s College School U17, College Universel Gatineau
13th round, 242nd overall - Brandon Fuicelli, F, Superior, Bishop’s College School U17, College Universel Gatineau
NCDC Draft (Phase II) - May 15
AZ
1st round, 8th overall - Nick Kondub, F, Jr. Coyotes 18U, Boston Jr. Rangers 3rd round, 76th overall - Connor MacKenzie, G, Jr. Coyotes 18U, Idaho Falls Spud Kings
11th round, 279th overall - Levy Kozma, F, Scottsdale, Devon Xtreme (AJHL), Utah Outliers
CA
1st round, 17th overall - Harrison Kramer, F, Redlands, New England Wolves (EHL), Islanders Hockey Club
4th round, 80th overall - Jayden Dean, F, Aliso Viejo, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 18U, Boston Jr. Bruins
James Mix, F, San Jose, Wisconsin Woodsmen (NA3HL), Idaho Falls
Spud Kings
24th round, 607th overall - Cody
Betsch, F, Temecula, Northwood School, Boston Dogs
25th round, 633rd overall - Kevin Betsch, D, Temecula, Northwood School, Boston Dogs
29th round, 729th overall - Zach Cooper, F, Los Gatos, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 18U, Grand Junction River Hawks
CO
3rd round, 60th overall - Tanner Guentensberger, D, Castle Rock, Northfield Mount Hermon School, Boston Jr. Rangers
4th round, 97th overall - Max Haims, F, Eagle, Colorado Thunderbirds 18U, Utah Outliers
7th round, 158th overall - Joseph Buschmann, D, Boulder, Connecticut RoughRiders (EHL), Boston Jr. Bruins
15th round, 365th overall - Jack Moore, D, Colorado Rampage 18U, Grand Junction River Hawks
17th round, 423rd overall - Gaines
Clonts, F, Denver, Canterbury School, New York Dynamo
20th round, 501st overall - Gino LaRusso, F, Denver, Canterbury School, New York Dynamo
23rd round, 573rd overall - Joshua Forss, D, Denver, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 18U, Grand Junction River Hawks 35th round, 885th overall - Carson Forkner, F, Greeley, Atlantic Coast Academy 18U Prep, Grand Junction River Hawks
5th round, 130th overall - Eli Heinze, F, Santa Barbara, Governor’s Academy, South Shore Kings
10th round, 253rd overall - Brady Craik, F, Yorba Linda, Winkler Flyers (MJHL), Utah Outliers 11th round, 284th overall - Nolan-
homa Warriors
1st round, 15th overall - Easton Margettie, F, Phoenix, Jr. Coyotes 15U, El Paso Rhinos
1st round, 17th overall - Dean Mindeman, F, Phoenix, Jr. Coyotes 15U, Chippewa Steel
CA
2nd round, 57th overall - Tanner Penn, D, Mission Viejo, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 15U, Corpus Christi IceRays 2nd round, 61st overall - Hudson Welsome, D, Mission Viejo, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Anchorage Wolverines
CO
UT 5th round, 126th overallJack Squibbs, D, Park City, CarShield 18U, Ogden Mustangs
NAHL Futures Draft - June 10
AZ
1st round, 3rd overall - Everett James, D, Cave Creek, Jr. Coyotes 15U, Okla-
4th round, 116th overall - Miles Roberts, G, Costa Mesa, Cranbrook Bucks (BCHL), Rochester Jr. Americans 7th round, 218th overall - Ethan Woolcott, F, Irvine, South Shore Kings (USPHL), El Paso Rhinos
7th round, 222nd overall - Eli Heinze, F, Santa Barbara, Governor’s Academy, Johnstown Tomahawks
1st round, 4th overall - Jasper Spears, D, Aspen, Okanagan 15U, North Iowa Bulls
2nd round, 44th overall - Frenk Kolgushkin, F, Colorado Rampage 15U, Amarillo Wranglers
2nd round, 62nd overall - Carter Lester, D, Colorado Springs, Colorado Rampage 15U, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
UT
2nd round, 37th overall - Jack Bishop, D, Wasatch Renegades 16U, Oklahoma Warriors
NAHL Entry Draft - June 11
AZ
5th round, 154th overall - Ryder Gibbs, F, Flagstaff, Philadelphia Jr. Flyers 18U, New Hampshire Mountain Kings 12th round, 388th overall - Hudson Bjornson, D, Carefree, Victoria Royals (WHL), El Paso Rhinos
CA
1st round, 5th overall - Brady Craik, F, Yorba Linda, Winkler Flyers (MJHL), Watertown Shamrocks
1st round. 15th overall - Clarke Nehmens, D, Chino Hills, Shattuck-St. Mary’s, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
3rd round, 76th overall - Quentin Bourne, D, Torrance, Whitecourt Wolverines (AJHL), Anchorage Wolverines
7th round, 232nd overall - Bravery Esplin, F, Encinitas, Idaho Falls Spud Kings (NCDC), Minot Minotauros
10th round, 310th overallJustin Obrochta, F, Garden Grove, Utah Outliers (NCDC), Watertown Shamrocks
CO
1st round, 26th overall - Jeremiah Roberts, F, Monument, Wenatchee Wild (WHL), Shreveport Mudbugs 1st round, 27th overall - Connor Makowski, F, Parker, Okanagan 16U, Chippewa Steel
4th round, 115th overall - Trey Fredenberg, F, Loveland, Stillwater Area HS, Bismarck Bobcats
6th round, 189th overall - Luke Pitrusu, F, Aurora, Culver Academy Prep, New Mexico Ice Wolves 8th round, 268th overall - Ryan Mitchell, G, Colorado Springs, Minnesota Mallards (NAHL), Wisconsin Windigo 9th round, 288th overall - Zachary Stahl, G, Littleton, Colorado Rampage 16U, Chippewa Steel
UT
5th round, 138th overall - Max Workman, F, Salt Lake City, Louisiana Drillers (NA3HL), Oklahoma Warriors 13th round, 424th overall - Carter Drecksel, F, Salt Lake City, Colorado Rampage 16U, Chippewa Steel
Congratulations to all players on getting drafted and best of luck moving forward!
Mission Viejo’s
Devlin, ‘one of the premier defensemen in junior hockey,’ named NAHL Defenseman of the Year
Anchorage Wolverines blueliner Brock Devlin has been named the NAHL Defenseman of the Year.
Devlin, a Mission Viejo native and two-year Wolverines veteran, dominated from the blue line and led all defensemen with 67 total points during the regular season. Devlin led all skaters in the regular season with 55 assists and found the back of the net 12 times.
The Dartmouth commit more than tripled his offensive production in every category from last season to this year and averaged 1.24 points per game in 54 regular-season games.
“Brock has been a silent leader whose actions consistently speak louder than words,” said Anchorage GM Merit Waldrop. “He leads by example in every facet of the game, earning the respect of teammates,
coaches, and opponents alike. His elite hockey IQ, exceptional skating ability, and relentless compete level have made him one of the premier defensemen in junior hockey.”
Waldrop explained the impact of Devlin in the locker room and community.
“Brock is a very impressive person who made a lasting impact in our locker room and throughout the Anchorage community,” said Waldrop.
“We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a player of his caliber and character represent the Wolverines. The sky is truly the limit for Brock Devlin, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.”
Back home, Devlin played for the San Diego Saints, Anaheim Jr. Ducks and Santa Margarita Catholic High School.
Arvada native, former Grit star Poirier heading to Ivy League with commitment to NCAA D-I Brown
George Poirier spent the past two seasons with the NAHL’s Colorado Grit, developing his game to be ready for the college game.
Recently, the Arvada native committed to NCAA Division I Brown (ECAC Hockey), where he will join Grit teammate Sheldon Rioux.
“I had been in contact with Brown University since the NAHL Top Prospects event and shortly after the season, they decided to make an offer to start the 2026-27 season as a freshman,” Poirier said. “Sheldon is an amazing person and player. Super excited to spend some more time playing with him.
“What attracted me to Brown was for sure the academic side of the school. I’ve always enjoyed pushing myself academically, so to get an opportunity to study and play at an Ivy League school was always a dream of mine.”
Playing for the Grit the past two years prepared Poirier for NCAA hockey and shaped him into an effec-
tive and more mature player.
“The South Division in the NAHL is an incredible physical and difficult place to play,” said Poirier. “Being in these situations night in and night out, constantly battling and pushing myself, has allowed me to take steps in my development I otherwise wouldn’t have.”
Looking ahead, Poirier said he’s excited for the offseason and to start planning for the 2025-26 season, wherever he winds up playing junior hockey.
“For the summer, it’s back to the regular lifting and skating,” Poirier said. “Waiting to see what the future holds and am incredibly excited for the opportunity. Not 100% sure yet where I’ll play next season. Going to be patient and find the right spot to continue my development next year.”
In Colorado prior to the Grit, Poirier suited up for his youth hockey career with the Arvada Hockey Association and the Colorado Thunderbirds.
George Poirier rounded out his game playing the 2024-25 season for the NAHL’s Colorado Grit.
Photo/Kristi Lourance
NAHL’s Grit granted inactive status for upcoming 2025-26 season
The NAHL has announced that the Colorado Grit have been granted in-
active status by the NAHL Board of Governors for the 2025-26 season.
As a result, the team will not participate in league competition during the upcoming season.
Inactive status indicates that the organization is pausing operations for one year but remains a member of the NAHL, with the opportunity to return when their inactive status concludes following the 2025-26 season.
Effective immediately, all veteran players previously rostered by the Grit are considered free agents and may be signed to a tender by another NAHL team. Similarly, all players tendered by the Colorado Grit for the 2025-26 season are now considered free agents and may either be signed to a tender by another NAHL team or selected in the 2025 Entry Draft.
“We’d like to thank the Grit fans and partners for their support of the team and are hopeful that the Grit can return when their inactive status concludes,” said NAHL commissioner Mark Frankenfeld.
Brock Devlin was a top player all season long for the NAHL’s Anchorage Wolverines.
Photo/NAHL
Trio of California natives signs with WHL teams
WESTWARD: Three more California natives are off to WHL teams as San Jose native and Jr. Sharks grad Jake Gustafson (above) has signed with the Portland Winterhawks, El Segundo native and
Los Angeles Jr. Kings and Anaheim Jr. Ducks alum Cole Hajt (below) has inked with the Prince George Cougars, and Marina del Rey native and Jr. Kings grad Tim Runtso (right) has signed with the Victoria Royals.
Tim Runtso
Jake Gustafson
Cole Hajt
Will Prowse has stood tall in net during the 2024-25 season for the USHL’s Lincoln Stars.
Photo/Brandon Anderson
Jr. Sharks alum, San Jose native Castro signs NAHL tender agreement with North Iowa
Lincoln Stars 18U defenseman
Isaiah Castro has signed an NAHL tender agreement for the 2025-26 season with the North Iowa Bulls. Photo/Patrick Garriepy Photography
The NAPHL’s T1ER League has announced that the Lincoln Stars 18U defenseman Isaiah Castro has signed a NAHL tender agreement for the 2025-26 season with the North Iowa Bulls.
Castro is in his second season with the Stars organization as a T1ER player, competing at both the 16U and 18U levels. The ‘07 blueliner has appeared in 17 games over two seasons, averaging more than a point per game with 19 total points (five goals, 14 assists). During the 2024–25 season, he led all Stars defenseman in scoring, tallying 11 points in 14
games.
One of Castro’s standout performances came at the T1ER / T1EHL Invitational, where he recorded a goal and two assists in a 5–1 win over the Ohio Blue Jackets. The San Jose native’s impressive play earned him spots on both the Dixon Cup Playoff team and the All-T1ER Second Team.
In addition to his success at the T1ER level, Castro was called up to the Bulls for 11 games.
Back home, Castro skated for the San Jose Jr. Sharks and Leigh High School.
Fort Collins native Thompson takes next step,
commits to NCAA D-III University of New England
The NAHL’s Minnesota Mallards have announced that defenseman Marek Thompson has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for the University of New England.
The Fort Collins native will head to Maine in the fall to skate with the Nor’easters.
“I’m super excited for the opportunity and I’ve heard nothing but great things about the program,” Thompson said.
A second-year skater in the NAHL, Thompson started his career in his home state with the Colorado Grit in 2023-24. He laced up in 56 contests and found the back of the net twice while producing 10 assists. Heading into his second year, the 20-year-old played with the Mallards during their inaugural season. He played in 56 matchups, tallied eight goals, while chipping in 20 assists.
His work on the ice was recognized and he was named a 2025 Top Prospect for the Central Division team.
Back home, Thompson played for the NCYH Jr. Eagles, Rocky Moun-
Marek Thompson spent the 2024-25 season with the NAHL’s Minnesota Mallards. Photo/NAHL
tain RoughRiders and at Fort Collins High School.
California Dreamin’ Memorial Day Showdown tournament crowns 18 division champions
The California Dreamin’ Hockey Tournaments’ Memorial Day Showdown tournament was held over the May 23-26 weekend in Southern California at IceTown Riverside and Ice Realm Carlsbad.
A total of 18 teams brought home championship banners at the end of the exciting weekend.
North
(IceTown Riverside)
8U B North: Ducks beat Canadiens 3-2 (Logan Hurtado MVP)
10U Competitive North: Mighty Kings beat Ratty Hatty 5-3 (Tommy Manzo MVP)
10U Elite North: Monarchy Elite Force beat Monarchy Elite Stealth 6-5 (Weston Kobus MVP)
12U Competitive (1) North: CCHT beats Monarchy Covert 6-4 (Byren Lee MVP)
12U Competitive (2) North: Hammerheads defeat AV Vice 8-4 (Alexander Lucas MVP)
14U Competitive North: CRUSH Hockey beats Angry Leafs 2-1 (Brayden Gilland MVP)
14U Elite North: Monarchy Smoke beats Bakersfield Condors 6-1 (Tanner Labbe MVP)
Midget Competitive/JV: Monarchy Catalyst beats CCHT 5-1 (Giovanni Perez MVP)
12U Competitive South: Monarchy Fire defeats Monarchy Synergy 3-2
12U Elite South: SD Admirals defeat Monarchy Stealth 3-1
14U Competitive South: Ventura Selects defeat Monarchy Fire 3-1
14U Elite South: Monarchy Catalyst defeats Monarchy Stealth 4-3
Midget Competitive/JV South: Ventura Selects defeat Carlsbad United 3-1
The next event on the schedule is the Summer Scorcher, scheduled for July 5-7.
For more information and to register for future events, visit www.californiadreaminhockeytournaments.com.
Midget 16U AA/Varsity: CRUSH North beats CRUSH South 3-2 (Marco Valverde MVP)
Midget 18U AA/Varsity: Summerhawks beat San Diego Admirals 6-0 (Owen Khuong MVP)
South
(Ice Realm Carlsbad)
8U Competitive South: Ventura Selects defeat Monarchy Smoke 2-1
8U Elite South: Monarchy Fire defeats SD Admirals 11-3
10U Competitive South: Ventura Selects defeat San Diego Friars 11-5
Kyle Miller
To see championship photos of all the winning teams, visit CARubberHockey. com!
Scottsdale native, Jr. Coyotes product Lipinski commits to NCAA Division I Maine
The WHL’s Vancouver Giants have announced that forward Jaden Lipinski has announced his commitment to NCAA Division I Maine.
The 20-year-old will join the Black Bears for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
Lipinski played four seasons with the Giants, tallying 68 goals and 124 assists for 192 points in 260 regularseason games.
He sits ninth in all-time points by a Giants skater.
The Scottsdale native and Jr. Coyotes product was drafted by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round (112th overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft.
He was named to the 2023-24 WHL B.C. Division Second All-Star Team after a 66-point (24 goals, 42 assists) campaign following his NHL
in
selection.
Lipinski wrapped up his final season of major junior eligibility with 17 goals and 41 assists for 58 points in 59 games after starting the season with the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers. He registered 15 multi-point outings, highlighted by a two-goal, twoassist effort in a 5-1 win against the Kelowna Rockets on Feb. 21, 2025.
The 6-foot-4, 210-pound power forward ranked third among all WHL skaters in faceoff wins (770, 58.2%), while finishing third on the Giants in assists and fourth in points.
In addition, 43 of his points (14 goals, 29 assists) came in the final 37 games of the regular season.
Lipinski racked up another three goals and nine assists in 26 postseason appearances.
Arvada native, Ralston Valley grad Bird set to take flight in 2025-26 with NA3HL’s Blizzard
Landon Bird always knew he’d wind up playing with the NA3HL’s Alexandria Blizzard – it was just a matter of timing.
Last month, the Arvada native signed a tender agreement with the Blizzard and looks to start his junior hockey career this fall in Minnesota.
“The opportunity to play for the Alexandria Blizzard actually began a couple of years ago when a private coach and scout I had been working with sent me to try out with the team,” said Bird. “At the time, I was just starting my junior year of high school and still had a lot of development ahead of me. Then this past October, I was approached again and was told that the Blizzard were interested. Not long after that, I received the tender.
“I think it is a great environment that will help me grow and push my skills and competition to the next level. I’ve been following Alexan-
Landon Bird served as an alternate captain during the 2024-25 high school hockey season for Ralston Valley. Photo/Terry Faulhabers
dria over this past season and I am not only excited to be a part of the team on the ice, but I am also looking forward to giving back to the community and being involved in the team-building and off-ice trainings as well.”
Bird said that his 2024-25 season in the Colorado high school ranks with Ralston Valley helped him turn a corner and make his game ready for the NA3HL.
“This past season was huge in my development,” said Bird. “I’ve played forward, mostly center, every year except for this past season when I asked to play defense to help me develop more as a two-way player. It helped my hockey IQ tremendously and I feel a lot more confident in my decision making and in my ability as a whole.”
Read more at CORubberHockey.com and ColoradoHockey.net!
Jaden Lipinski skated
260 games over four junior hockey seasons for the WHL’s Vancouver Giants. Photo/Rob Wilton
Durango native Wentworth commits to NCAA Division III Dubuque as next step in hockey, academic careers
The NAHL’s St. Cloud Norsemen have announced that forward Zak Wentworth has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for Dubuque.
Serving as a product of the ladder of development, the Durango native skated in the NA3HL for three seasons with the New Mexico Ice Wolves. His first taste of the NAHL happened last season with the New Mexico Ice Wolves, where he played in four games.
This season, Wentworth received the call-up from the NA3HL’s Ice Wolves after the NA3HL Showcase to play with the Norsemen. He played the second half of the 2024-25 season in 26 contests where he tallied
a goal and four assists.
Norsemen head coach Joe Exter shared his excitement for Wentworth.
“We are excited for Zak to move on to the University of Dubuque,” Exter said. “He is a great piece for them to add as they build their program. Zak joined our team at the midseason mark and showed he can provide a spark with his physical play and commitment to go to the net. Most importantly, he is a great teammate with a strong work ethic.
“He will have a positive impact at Dubuque.”
Zak Wentworth had a stellar 2024-25 season with the St. Cloud Norsemen. Photo/Devin Hill
Denver native Andrus uses EHL as extra push to gain NCAA Division III commitment to Rivier
Brogan Andrus, a forward for the EHL’s Bridgewater Bandits, has committed to NCAA Division III Rivier for the 2025-26 season.
The ’04 out of Denver spent two years with the Bandits at the EHL level. In his sophomore season, he tallied 12 goals and 10 assists in 44 games. This level of production more than tripled his output from his rookie season. In the final four games of the season, his six points in four games earned him EHL Star of the Week honors.
“When you look for players with great work ethic and attitude, Brogan is right at the top of the list,” Bandits head coach Scott Drevitch said. “A two-year Bandit, he came with a mission to play NCAA hockey and further his education. He trusted the process, working on his skills and hockey knowledge. A big part of our team in the room and on the ice.
“I’m extremely happy for him. Rivier is getting a great teammate, student, and player.”
Andrus said he is thrilled to be able to continue his hockey and academic
careers at the NCAA level.
“I am beyond excited to announce my commitment to Rivier University,” Andrus said. “I am grateful for this opportunity to continue my academic and athletic career. I would like to thank God, my parents, my coaches, and teammates who helped me throughout my journey. Another thanks to Coach Drevitch for his incredible support and great coaching over my junior career. I am incredibly proud and honored to be a Bandit. Thanks again to (Rivier) Coach (Shaun) Millerick for this opportunity. I can’t wait to be a Raider.”
Back home, Andrus said he “bounced around from team to team until high school when I played for Colorado Academy.”
Read more on EHL players advancing to the NCAA ranks at
Brogan Andrus used the EHL as a steppingstone to play NCAA hockey for Division III Rivier. Photo/Dan Hickling/Hickling Images
Former Arizona Hockey Union coach, Gilbert native St. Clair named new coach for reigning USHL Clark Cup champion Lumber jacks
The USHL’s Muskegon Lumberjacks have announced that Colten St. Clair is the seventh head coach in franchise history.
St. Clair joined the organization in February as an associate head coach, helping the team to its first Clark Cup title last week.
A Gilbert native, St. Clair joined the Muskegon coaching staff with 16 games left in the 2024-25 season and saw the team finish 12-3-1-0 through the stretch. In the post-season, St. Clair and the Jacks went 11-2-1 on the way to the Clark Cup title.
“We are very excited to announce Colten as our next head coach,” said Lumberjacks president Steve Lowe. “We are very confident he will continue with our development model, empowering players to become better players and men while balancing the level of competition we are accustomed to.”
Previously in the USHL, St. Clair spent three seasons playing with the Fargo Force from 2008-11. His time in Fargo included three runs to the Clark Cup playoffs and a pair of appearances in the finals in 2009 and 2010.
For his college career, St. Clair played five seasons of NCAA Division I hockey at North Dakota, which included helping the Fighting Hawks win a national title in 2016. St. Clair was an alternate captain on that championship squad.
As a coach, St. Clair returned to the USHL in 2021-22 as an associate head coach for the Sioux City Musketeers, helping them to a Clark Cup championship. Following his two years in Sioux City, he moved to Minnesota, becoming the head coach for the NAHL’s Minnesota Wilderness.
Four games into the 2024-25 campaign, St. Clair took over the head coaching role for the Omaha Lancers and led the team to a 6-10-2-0 record in 18 games before parting ways with the organization.
Gilbert native Colten St. Clair will be tasked with guiding the USHL’s Muskegon Lumberjacks to a Clark Cup repeat in 2025-26. He joined the team in February as an associate head coach. Photo/Muskegon Lumberjacks
When asked about his new role with the Lumberjacks, St. Clair said, “I’m incredibly grateful to Pete Herms, Steve Lowe, Jimmy McGroarty, and the entire Muskegon Lumberjacks organization for believing in me to lead this team as the next head coach.
“I would also like to thank Parker Burgess for showing me the way about what makes Muskegon so special. It’s an honor to be entrusted with carrying forward the winning culture that has been built here, one driven by passion, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
“Together, we will continue to develop leaders of men, fostering a
team-first mentality and being relentless in our pursuit of growth – both on and off the ice.”
St. Clair added that he’s excited to see what the Lumberjacks can accomplish going forward.
“Our success isn’t just measured in victories, but in the strength of the culture built here, and the standards we set,” said St. Clair. “I am honored and excited to work with the organization and players that I care deeply about.”
In Phoenix, he started as an assistant coach and skills instructor in 2016-17 with the WSHL’s Phoenix Knights before being promoted to head coach the following season. In his first campaign as a bench boss,
St. Clair took a team that won five games the year before to 28 wins in 2017-18. That turnaround, when he was only 25 years old, made history, as it earned him the distinction of being the youngest coach ever to win the WSHL’s Coach of the Year award.
St. Clair also spent time working with the Arizona Hockey Union youth hockey program.
