Blizzard defenseman Youso makes NCAA DI commitment

September 4, 2013

The Brookings Blizzard, proud members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), are pleased to announce that defenseman Matt Youso has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey next season at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. 

 

The University of Nebraska-Omaha is a NCAA Division I program and will compete in the new National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) during the 2013-14 season.

 

Youso is a 6’1/205 lbs. defenseman from International Falls, Minnesota.  He played in 56 regular season and playoff games for the Blizzard last season, recording 3 goals and 10 assists.  He also led the Blizzard in penalty minutes last season with 131.

 

In 2011-12, Youso appeared in 16 games with the Alexandria Blizzard of the NAHL and recorded eight points.

 

"Matt will be a great addition at UNO," said Blizzard head coach Cory Laylin. "His physical play and versatility will translate well at the next level.  He was a huge part of our team last year and we wish him all the best."

 

Youso was an assistant captain for the Blizzard during the 2012-13 campaign. Known for his toughness and physical play, he was versatile enough to play both forward and defense for the Blizzard last season.

 

UNO is coached by Dean Blais, one of the most decorated coaches in NCAA history. A native of International Falls, MN himself, Blais won two national championships with the University of North Dakota in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s.

 

UNO will open the 2013-14 season at home on October 11th against Bentley.