El Paso forward Johnson makes NCAA DI commitment

The El Paso Rhinos of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are excited to announce their first NCAA Division I commitment of the season as forward Matt Johnson has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey with the University of Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves.

The 6’1/195 lbs. native of Calgary, Alberta, has 25 points (11 goals and 14 assists) in 29 games in his first and only season in the NAHL. A consistent offensive threat for the Rhinos, Johnson, 20, is currently second on the team in goals, points, and assists.

“Extremely proud to announce my commitment to play D1 hockey at the university of Alaska-Anchorage. Thank you to my family, teammates, coaches and everyone else who has helped me during this journey. Excited to be a Sea Wolf,” stated Johnson.

The University of Alaska-Anchorage opted out of the 2020-21 season and has not played during the 2021-22 season. The program’s dormancy, however, caught Johnson’s eye. “Being a rebuilding year, it’s a great opportunity to come in and make an impact—similar to this year in El Paso. The UAA coach staff also shown a lot of belief in me as a player,” he said.

The El Paso staff is thrilled to see Johnson continue his career at the next level. “Our organization is very proud and happy for Matt and his family. He’s an incredibly driven person and very deserving of this opportunity,” Rhino head coach Anthony Bohn said.

Johnson now joins teammates Alex Krause (Dartmouth University), Jan Olenginski (St. Lawrence University), and Jacob Zacharewicz (Brown University) in becoming college 2022-23 commits.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list