Maryland Forward Franks makes NCAA DI Commitment

Photo Credit: James Harding

The Maryland Black Bears of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that forward Ryan Franks has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Canisius University in the Atlantic.

The 6-foot-4 skater from the Empire State will skate with the Golden Griffs in Buffalo, New York, in the fall. Franks is a first-year forward on the Black Bears. The 20-year-old joined Maryland in mid-October and has been on an offensive tear for the team. In his 17 games played, he has shown up on the scoresheet in 13 of them. Franks features eight multi-point games with his first two-goal performance happening on December 5, 2025. The ‘05 lefty has scored 13 goals while making nine assists for his team. He has scored four goals on the man advantage, while three goals were named the decider in contests.

Franks shares more on what it means to take the next step in his hockey career.

“I am extremely proud and honored to announce my commitment to play Division I hockey at Canisius University. I want to thank my family, coaches, friends, and teammates for their constant support throughout this journey. I can’t wait to get to work and represent Canisius as a Griffin.”

Head coach of the Black Bears, Clint Mylymok, explains what he has seen from Franks so far this season.

“Frankie has come to Maryland and has done everything we have asked. He is a very talented, and competitive player that has really proven himself as an elite, junior hockey player. We have no doubt that he will do the same at the NCAA level, Canisius is getting a very bright prospect.”

Franks is one of eight members of the Maryland Black Bears to make a Division I hockey college commitment.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list