Chippewa Forward Whisenand makes NCAA Commitment

The Chippewa Steel of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that forward Hunter Whisenand has committed to play NCAA hockey for Aurora University in the NCHA.

Hailing from Edwardsville, Illinois, Whisenand will stay close to home and skate for the Spartans next fall. The ‘05 righty is a third-year veteran in the League of Opportunity. This season, he has laced up for the Steel in eight contests and has notched two assists. Last year, the 6’0 forward kicked off his season with the Odessa Jackalopes, skating in three contests. Following his time with the Texas-based team, he was acquired by Chippewa and went on to play in 47 games. Whisenand tallied eight goals and eight assists for the team, with two of his goals scored on the power play. His debut season in the NAHL featured the ‘05 skater hitting the ice with the Jackalopes, suiting up for 46 matchups. He scored four goals while making five assists.

The third-year veteran is an alumnus of the CarShield program, having played in the T1ER at the 15U and 16U levels for two years. His 15U season featured the Illinois native playing 19 games, finding the back of the net 13 times while producing eight assists for his roster. In his 16U year, Whisenand played in 32 games, tallying 10 goals and nine assists for his team.

Assistant coach of the Chippewa Steel, Carver Watson, explains more about the type of athlete Whisenand represents.

“Hunter exemplifies true leadership and accountability. He is a player whom the coach and team can depend on in every aspect of the game. We are very happy for him on his commitment to Aurora, and feel like he will make an immediate impact.”

Whisenand is one of four members of the Chippewa Steel to make a college ice hockey commitment.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list