Chippewa defenseman Whalen makes NCAA commitment
The Chippewa Steel of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that defenseman Gordon Whalen has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
Whalen, 21, capped of a successful two-year NAHL career this past season, the majority of which was spent in Chippewa Falls with the Steel. The 6’0/185 lbs. native of Niles, Illinois, saw the major part of his production during the 2019-20 season increase during his time with the Steel.
Whalen began the season with the Minnesota Magicians, appearing in 18 games and recorded five points. After his trade to Chippewa right after Thanksgiving, Whalen thrived recording eight points in 30 games with the Steel.
"We're excited for Gordie to continue his education and playing career at River Falls. He was a great teammate and leader for us and we look forward to watching him at the next level,” said Steel head coach Carter Foguth.
Whalen spent the 2018-19 season in the NAHL with the Corpus Christi IceRays, recording four points in 40 games played. He also played in the 2019 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament for the South Division team, recording one point in two games.
Whalen made his NAHL debut during the 2017-18 season, playing in three games for the Bismarck Bobcats. Overall in 91 career NAHL games Whalen has recorded 17 points.
UW-River Falls, which is located 30 minutes from the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, plays in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) and are 19-time WIAC Champions. The three-time NCAA National Champions play their home games out of the brand new 65-million-dollar W.H. Hunt Arena, located directly on campus.
Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list