Rochester Forward Karlsson makes NCAA DI Commitment

The Rochester Jr. Americans of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that forward Calle Karlsson has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Niagara University in the Atlantic.

The 6’1 forward from the hockey-rich nation of Sweden, Karlsson will stay in New York to skate with the Purple Eagles. The ‘04 skater is a first-year player in the NAHL. This year he hit the ice in 71 games and led the Jr. Americans roster with 37 goals, 50 assists, and 1.23 points per game. Karlsson is one of the top scorers in the NAHL and his offensive prowess notched him a spot as a 2025 Top Prospect on the East Division team at the 2025 Top Prospects Tournament. He was named the East Division Star of the Week on three separate occasions and earned February’s Bauer Hockey Forward of the Month honors thanks to his work on the ice. 

The postseason featured Karlsson lacing up for 12 games and featured six goals and eight assists for the Jr. Americans. His 14 total points and 1.17 points per game was a team-leading number on Rochester. His ability to score and help his team score allowed him to be named as a First-Team East Division recipient. From January to March, Karlsson posted a franchise record of a 19-game point streak, featuring 35 points in that hot streak. 

Karlsson shares his excitement to be joining the Purple Eagles in the fall. 

“I’m proud and honored to announce my commitment to play Division I hockey at Niagara University. I want to thank my family, friends, coaches, and teammates for helping me along the way!”

Head Coach of the Jr. Americans, Francois Methot, shares more on the impact Karlsson has had this season.

“We’re very proud of Calle and his commitment to play Division I hockey at Niagara University. Making the jump to North American hockey was a significant adjustment, but his dedication to becoming the best player he can be has truly paid off. After Christmas, he became a key part of our team’s success and played a major role in our strong second-half run. Calle is not only a talented player but also a tremendous presence in the locker room—his positive energy is felt every day. We wish him all the best in this exciting next chapter of his career.”

Karlsson is the ninth member of the Rochester Jr. Americans to make a Division I hockey college commitment.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list