Wilderness forward Neill makes NCAA DI commitment

The Minnesota Wilderness of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that forward Max Neill has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Lindenwood University.

Neill, 21, is currently competing in his fourth and final season of junior hockey, the last two of which have been spent in the NAHL. The 6’1/185 lbs. native of Portage La Prairie, MB played in all 60 regular season games for the Wilderness during the 2021-22 season and put up 49 points (21 goals, 28 assists).

“Honored to announce my commitment to play Division 1 hockey and further my education at Lindenwood University. I can’t thank the @mnwilderness and all my past coaches, teammates, trainers, billets, friends and family enough for helping me reach this point. #lions,” said Neill in a statement.

Neill was the NAHL’s Forward of the Month back in January. He played in eight games during the month and recorded 14 points, including 9 goals and 5 assists to go along with a +11 rating. Neill had two game-winning goals during the month and four multi-point games. He recorded at least a point in seven of the eight games played in January.

“Max is the ultimate throwback player and a tremendous competitor. He has had an outstanding season and is a big reason for our success. Lindenwood is getting a terrific player and a great young man. Our entire organization is happy for Max and his family,” said Wilderness Head Coach and GM Dave Boitz.

Neill spent the 2020-21 season in the NAHL playing for the Johnstown Tomahawks, where he put up 20 points in 46 games played.

Overall in 106 career NAHL games, he has record 69 points.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list