Wichita Falls goalie Bartoszkiewicz makes NCAA DI commitment

Wichita Falls goalie Owen Bartoszkiewicz shined in the 2021 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament, allowing just a single goal in two games.

The Wichita Falls Warriors of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that Top Prospects goaltender Owen Bartoszkiewicz has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for the University of Minnesota in the B1G.

“I chose the Gophers because they have great facilities and their staff and coaches are just amazing along with the players. They are all super nice people, I couldn’t have asked for anything better,” said Bartoszkiewicz.

The 6’2/195 lbs. native of Rochester, MI, will be staying up north in a familiar area just a couple of states over to continue his hockey career. “When I was little my dad went to St. Cloud University and they were rivals against Minnesota, and I just wanted to go against my dad and I fell in love with the Gophers. The gym, the rink, and the people there were amazing, and I could see myself just working hard and being there every day, all day.”

During the 2020-21 season with the Warriors, Bartoszkiewicz, 18, recorded a 23-14-4 record in 41 games played during his rookie season. Bartoszkiewicz finished with a 2.44 GAA, a .917 save percentage and recorded six shutouts during the regular season.

Bartoszkiewicz was named South Division Star of the Week twice and was named South Division goaltender and rookie of the year in addition to being named part of the NAHL and South All Rookie Team. He was also selected to and played in the 2021 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament for the South Division team, where is shined in front of NHL scouts allowing just a single goal in two games and stopping 29 of 30 shots.

“I’m super excited and super lucky to have a chance to go and extend my career at the University of Minnesota, I truly thank everyone,” said Bartoszkiewicz.

Warriors Head Coach Garrett Roth could not be more excited for Bartoszkiewicz and what he has been able to accomplish. “Owen is very deserving of this opportunity to play for the University of Minnesota,” said Roth. “His play and accolades this season speak for themselves but what separates him at this level is his commitment to the game. Owen was a top tier goaltender in all of the NAHL this past season.”

“His swagger, confidence, and especially the hard work he has put forth all season long has put him in a category of elite goaltenders. Owen was a huge part of our success with his competitive fire he brought everyday along with his diligent approach to preparation and improving his game,” said Roth. “As an organization we are extremely proud of what he has accomplished in the short time he has been here and we look forward to his success at the University of Minnesota.”

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list