New Mexico forward Howard makes NCAA DI commitment

The New Mexico Ice Wolves of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that forward Will Howard has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Augustana University in the CCHA.

Howard, 20, is currently in his third and final season of playing junior hockey in the NAHL. The 6’1/195 lbs. native of Grand Forks, North Dakota, is currently leading the Ice Wolves in scoring so far during the 2022-23 season with 12 points (8 goals, 4 assists) in eight games played to date.

“I’m proud to announce my commitment to play Division 1 college hockey at Augustana University! Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, friends, and family that have helped me get to where I am today. A huge thank you to the New Mexico Ice Wolves organization for making this possible. I also want to say a special thank you to Coach Fox and Coach Follmer for believing in me and helping me realize my Division 1 hockey dreams. Excited to be apart of something special at Augustana! #GoVikings,” said Howard on social media.

Howard began his NAHL career during the 2020-21 season, recording four points in 31 games played. In 2021-22, he made a big jump forward in his production with 42 points (18 goals, 24 assists) in 56 regular season games. He also put up six points in 13 playoff games during the Ice Wolves run to the South Division title and appearance at the Robertson Cup Championship.

Overall in his NAHL career, Howard has played in 96 games and recorded 62 points.

Prior to playing in the NAHL, Howard played high school hockey for Grand Forks Central High and also for Team North Dakota AAA.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list