Elmira Forward Beltz makes NCAA DIII Commitment

The Elmira Aviators of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) is proud to announce that forward Clarence Beltz has committed to play NCAA Division III for Hamilton College in the NESCAC.

The 6’3 righty from Missoula, Montana is continuing his hockey career in Clinton, New York with the Continentals. Beltz made his NAHL debut with the latest expansion team, the Elmira Aviators. He has laced up in 51 contests with the squad and features 37 points on the year. Beltz has found the back of the net 15 times while producing 22 assists. Currently, Beltz is second on his squad with his 37 points and third with his 22 assists and 15 goals for the Aviators. His offensive production is felt by the team because he additionally leads with his 0.73 points per game stat line.

Beltz went into detail on his decision in choosing the program. 

“I guess my role on the squad and just kind of going in as a freshman. They have a place for me on the team. As well, the visit and seeing the campus was pretty easy for me to decide that it was the place I wanted to be.”

Prior to joining the Aviators, he skated with the Bonnyville Pontiacs in the AJHL. He played in 47 matchups and scored 13 goals while making 12 assists. 

At Hamilton College, he will be joining fellow teammate Curtiss Sturgeon, and that is not the only thing they share in common. The two skaters both grew up with having a rink in their backgrounds. Their families saw their love for the game at a young age and both athletes got the opportunity to hit the ice a few steps from their homes. 

Beltz shares more of the story behind the rink in his backyard.

“My dad built a backyard rink in our backyard when I was really little. And, I started skating on that when I was, like, two years old, and then kind of got into the public hockey scene around, like, five. I kind of grew up skating on my backyard rink. And that's really what got me into the game.” 

Head coach of the Aviators, Dom Manachio, shares his excitement for Beltz. 

“We are incredibly proud of Clarence for his commitment to Hamilton College. He has been a key contributor for our program, bringing a combination of skill, determination, and leadership to the ice every day. Hamilton is getting a dynamic forward who competes at a high level and makes those around them better. We look forward to seeing Beltz continue his success both academically and athletically at the NCAA level.”

Beltz is one of seven members of the Elmira Aviators to make a college ice hockey commitment.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list