Fairbanks goalie Ryman makes NCAA D1 commitment
Fairbanks goalie Austin Ryman played two seasons in the NAPHL prior to his time in the NAHL, which has led to an NCAA Division 1 commitment to Alaska-Fairbanks.
The Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that goaltender and NAPHL grad Austin Ryman has committed to play NCAA Division 1 hockey for the University of Alaska-Fairbanks in the WCHA.
Ryman, 20, will join the Nanooks for the second semester this season. The 5’11/175 lbs. native of Fairbanks, Alaska, was playing in his second season with the Ice Dogs during the 2020-21 campaign. In three games this season, Ryman was 0-2-0 with a 5.67 goals against average and a .841 save percentage.
“When Austin was in goal, he played and showed very well,” said Ice Dogs head coach Trevor Stewart. “His numbers this season weren’t really indicative of his abilities. We are happy for him that he has the opportunity to play at the NCAA Division 1 level.”
During the 2019-20 season, Ryman was outstanding in a back-up role to Mattias Sholl, posting a 7-1-0 record with a 1.55 goals against average and .929 save percentage. He also had five shutouts in 11 starts.
Prior to playing in the NAHL, Ryman played two seasons in the NAPHL for the Wenatchee Wolves 18U team. During the 2018-19 season, he led the 18U Division with 9 wins and appeared in 26 regular games overall in his NAPHL career and posted a 16-7-1 record.
“If any adversity comes your way, people are going to talk about how you handle it, which is why there is no reason not to give 110% while you are out there,” said Ryman. “Playing for the Ice Dogs in the NAHL changed me from a junior goaltender to a Division 1 goaltender.”
Ryman is the 7th player on the 2020-21 Ice Dogs roster who is committed to play for an NCAA Division 1 school.
Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list
