Johnstown defenseman Friesen makes NCAA commitment
June 13, 2019
The Johnstown Tomahawks of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that defenseman Austin Friesen has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for the University of Wisconsin-Superior.
Friesen, 20, finished his final season of junior hockey playing in the NAHL for the Tomahawks. The 6’3/203 lbs. native of of Winnipeg, Manitoba, recorded 15 points (4 goals, 11 assists) in 60 games played during the 2018-19 regular season.
He also appeared in all 13 Tomahawks Robertson Cup Playoff games.
“Austin contributed in a variety of ways to our blue line this past season. His game really emerged and he showed the ability he has as a two-way defenseman. I thought in the playoffs he took his game to a new level and was outstanding. A great team guy that everybody loved, I am excited for him and his opportunity with Superior,” said Tomahawks head coach Mike Letizia.
Prior to playing junior hockey, Friesen spent parts of two seasons playing in the NAPHL. During the 2013-14 season, he played for the Pursuit of Excellence 16U team and during the 2014-15 season, he played for the Omaha AAA 16U team.
University of Wisconsin – Superior is located in Superior, Wisconsin and their team, the Yellowjackets, plays in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference as an NCAA Division III school.