Austin forward Oleksiuk makes NCAA commitment

The Austin Bruins of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that forward Kyle Oleksiuk has announced his commitment to play NCAA Division III hockey at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

Oleksiuk, 21, spent a year and a half in the black-and-gold after being acquired in a trade with the Maryland Black Bears at the 2019-20 trade deadline. While playing for the Bruins, Oleksiuk registered nine goals and 16 assists in 25 games played.

“Kyle had to battle through a pretty big injury this season and we are excited that he choise Wisconsin-Eau Claire,” said Bruins Head Coach Steve Howard. “We look forward to watching his prograss while he’s only a couple hours away from Austin.”

In total, Oleksiuk played in 128 games in the NAHL with three teams including Austin, Maryland, and the Minot Minotauros. Before his NAHL days, the Winnipeg, Canada, native also played two season in the MJHL. All-in-all, Oleksiuk registered 50 goals, 70 assists, and 120 total points during his junior career.

“I’d like to thank my coaches, teammates, and the entire Austin Bruins organization for the last year and a half,” stated Oleksiuk. “The Bruins organization is first class and I am very grateful to have been part of it. Thank you to the city of Austin and all the fans who came out to support us at Riverside Arena.”

Oleksiuk continues the streak of at least one former Bruin playing for the Blugolds, following former Bruin Jon Richards who just completed his senior season in 2020-21. Oleksiuk and Richards younger brother, Jens, competed together for the Bruins this past season.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list