Elmira Forward Dantas Makes NCAA Commitment

The Elmira Aviators of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that forward Evan Dantas has committed to play NCAA hockey for Utica University in the UCHC.

The 5-foot-10 lefty from Brampton, Ontario, Dantas will join the Pioneers in the fall. Dantas was Elmira’s leading scorer in every offensive category during his age-out season. He tallied 25 goals, made 30 assists, and registered 55 points in 55 games played. Nine of his goals were scored on the man advantage, while 14 assists were recorded on the power play. His work on the ice secured the ‘05 skater a spot on the East Division team at the 2026 Top Prospects Tournament. He scored a goal during the two-day event at the USA Hockey Arena. Before joining the Aviators, he had a six-game stint with the Danbury Hat Tricks at the beginning of the 2025-26 campaign. He played six games with the Hat Tricks, recording two goals and three assists. He produced five points in that span.

Dantas was a 2025 NAHL Entry Draft pick by the Danbury Hat Tricks in the first round, eighth overall.

Dantas is one of 11 members of the Elmira Aviators to make a college ice hockey commitment.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list