After two years with Alaska Fairbanks University, Cade Neilson is heading east.
Approximately 3300 miles east to the banks of Lake Superior and the border with Canada.
The British forward has committed to Michigan Tech University in what will be his third year in the NCAA.
The Huskies were Conference Tournament Champions last season but have lost several graduates, many of whom have transitioned into the professional game.
That left Michigan Tech with a big hole to fill at the centre position and Neilson fits the bill.
The British forward will not be the only overseas player on the roster with four other Europeans in Michigan Tech’s number.
Elias Jansson and Tom Leppä are teenagers from Finland. They are joined by Swedish pair Viktor Hurtig and Philip Fankl.
With two NHL prospects on the roster, there is the chance for Neilson to impress professional scouts in his third NCAA season in fresh surroundings.
The aforementioned Hurtig (164 in 2021) and fellow defenceman Chase Pietila (111 in 2024) were selections by the New Jersey Devils and Pittsburgh Penguins respectively.
Home ice for Michigan Tech is the John J. MacInnes Ice Arena with a capacity of 4200. Crowd traditions include the Huskies Pep Band and the student section named Mitch’s Misfits.
The Huskies’ primary colours are black and gold but interestingly their primary logo does not feature on many jerseys, with writing seemingly preferred across the front.
Head Coach since 2017 is Joe Shawhan, who during that time has posted a winning record of 138–103–26 and was named CCHA Coach of the Year in 2023.
Neilson will make his debut for Michigan Tech on the road against familiar opponents as Alaska Fairbanks is the first match-up for the Huskies in October.
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