Colorado Forward Rioux makes NCAA DI Commitment

The Colorado Grit of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that forward Sheldon Rioux has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Brown University in the ECAC.

Heading to skate with the Brown Bears in the 2026-2027 season is the ‘07 lefty from Val-d’OR, Canada. Rioux is in his second season with the Colorado Grit and is one of the younger skaters on the squad. The 17-year-old tallied 12 goals and 18 assists over 58 games played. He ranks fourth on the Grit with his 30 total points on the year. Two of his goals this season were game-winning goals and two were scored on the man advantage. This season he was also selected as a 2025 Top Prospect for the Selects Gold Squad. 

Last season, he made multiple appearances for the Colorado team throughout the year. Rioux played 15 games as a 16-year-old and scored two goals and three assists. One of his goals with the Grit was scored on the power play. 

Rioux shares his excitement to be skating with Brown University. 

“I am very proud and honored to be part of the Brown organization. I want to thank all my coaches, friends, advisor, and teammates for all they have done for me in continuing my path in hockey. Thank you to my parents and family for all the sacrifices they have made to make this possible for me. Go Bears!”

Former head coach of the Grit, Kevin Holmstrom, shares more on Rioux's development and excitement for him.

“We are very excited for Sheldon and his commitment to Brown. Sheldon has been so dedicated to his development, he will be very successful. He has a great attitude, is very talented, and works hard every day establishing himself as a premier player in our league. It has been fun to see his growth and the significant amount of work he has put in to round out his game. Again, we could not be happier for him and all he has in front of him at Brown.”

Rioux is one of four members of the Colorado Grit to make a Division I hockey college commitment.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list