Elmira Forward Sturgeon makes NCAA DIII Commitment

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

The 20-year-old from Russell, Ontario will skate as a Continental in the fall. Sturgeon is a 5’8 righty and has played a major offensive role on the Aviators. On the season, he has dished out the most goals on his squad with 18. He sits in second behind his teammate, Beltz, with 29 points on the year. Sturgeon was also one of the selected athletes to head to the USA Hockey Arena this season for the 2025 Top Prospects Tournament. He was featured on the undefeated Selects Black team for the tournament. 

At Hamilton College, he will be joining fellow teammate Clarence Beltz, and that is not the only thing they share in common. The two skaters both grew up 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. 

Sturgeon shares a little more about his start in playing hockey.

“How I started in hockey. Well, my dad built an outdoor rink in our backyard and my mom was a figure skater, so she taught me how to skate. I just fell in love with the sport.”

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

“We are incredibly proud of Curtiss for his commitment to Hamilton College. He has been a key contributor to 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 Sturgeon continue his success both academically and athletically at the NCAA level.”

Sturgeon 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