Anchorage forward Westin makes NCAA DI commitment

Aiden Westin played three seasons in the NAPHL prior to playing this season in the NAHL.

The Anchorage Wolverines organization is proud to announce that forward and NAPHL grad Aiden Westin has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for the University of Alaska-Fairbanks for the 2023-24 season.

Westin, 20, grew up playing hockey in Anchorage, making him the first local Wolverines player to commit to an NCAA Division I program, and the fifth Wolverine to have a college commitment.

So far this season, the 6’1/180 lbs. native of Anchorage, AK, has put up impressive numbers with 16 goals and 20 assists in 37 games.

“I think it’s great I can play in state in front of my friends and family. It’s amazing that Alaska has two college hockey programs that are committed to growing local hockey and recruiting local players,” said Westin.

Westin is another great example of the ladder of development between the NAHL and the NAPHL. He played three years in the NAPHL leading up to playing in the NAHL, which included two seasons with the Alaska Oilers and one season with the New Jersey Jr. Titans. Last season, he played 18U hockey with the Maine Nordiques.

Wolverines founding member Aaron Schutt added, “I’m very excited about this commit. It is the first confirmation of our vision of the hockey ladder of development from youth to junior to college, all in Alaska. And I serve on UAF Board of Advisors, so go Nanooks.”

UAF has won 5 out of its last 6 games, and currently holds a record of 12-17-1. The Nanooks compete at the NCAA Division I level, competing as an Independent. Westin’s commitment to an Alaska program is a great display of the strength of hockey development in our state.

“We are excited and honored to have Aiden commit to one of our Alaska institutions in the University of Alaska Fairbanks. I have had the privilege of coaching Aiden since he was a mite hockey player, and his character and work ethic are second to none. UAF is getting a tremendous young man,” says Director of Hockey Operations Keith Morris.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list