Bismarck defenseman Martel makes NCAA commitment

March 18, 2020

The Bismarck Bobcats of North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that forward/defenseman Sam Martel has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

 

“It’s an honor to commit to Eau Claire to continue my hockey career,” Martel said. “I’m really excited for my next four years there.”

 

Martel, 21, collected five goals and 11 assists in his time with the Bobcats this season. He flipped between forward and defenseman for Bismarck, giving the coaches a hybrid tool to use anywhere on the ice.

 

The 5’9/165 lbs. native of Bolingbrook, Illinois, played the 2017-18 season in the NAHL with the Topeka RoadRunners, recording 21 points in 34 games played. Overall in 83 career NAHL games with Bismarck and Topeka, Martel recorded 37 career points.

 

UW-Eau Claire is one of the top programs in NCAA Division III hockey, finishing 22-4-2 in the 2019-2020 season. Martel will join the Blugolds next year.

 

“I can’t thank my coaches, family and friends enough for believing in me,” Martel said. “I’m happy to be a Blugold!”