The Chippewa Steel of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that forward  Connor Szmul has committed to play NCAA Division 1 hockey for Long Island University.

The 5’8/155 lbs. native of Castle Rock, Colorado finished the 2019-2020 season with 21 goals and 27 assists in 51 games on the season. During the 2018-19 season, Szmul recorded 30 points.

“Committing to play Division 1 hockey has been a dream of mine for a very long time and I couldn’t be more excited to get started at the Long Island University next season,” stated Connor Szmul.

He appeared in 57 games for the Coulee Region Chill prior to coming to Chippewa where he recorded 7 goals and 11 assists. In his 163 career NAHL games, he had 44 goals and 52 assists.

“We’re happy for Connor and his family during this exciting time. He has worked hard for his commitment and has been a huge part of our success. He is very deserving and we’re proud to have him take the next step in playing D1 hockey,” stated Steel Head Coach Carter Foguth.

Szmul is the sixth Steel player with an NCAA Division 1 commitment, joining former teammates Jaden Grant (Bowling Green State University), Zane Demsey (Michigan State University), Jacob Dirks (Ferris State University), Luke Farthing (Ferris State University),  and Jackson Decker (Canisius College).

###

The Chippewa Steel are members of the NAHL which is the oldest and largest junior hockey league of its kind in the United States and one of only two USA Hockey-certified leagues that operate under the non pay-to-play model.  The NAHL is also one of the best at advancing players to NCAA and professional hockey. Notable Alumni of the NAHL include Ryan Suter (MIN), Patrick Kane (CHI) and Phil Kessel (ARI) All league games are viewable via HockeyTV. For more information, visit chippewasteelhockey.com.