Fairbanks Forward Diggins makes NCAA DI Commitment

Diggins lifted the Selects White to a 3-2 victory over the USNTDP with a two-point performance.

The Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that forward Mack Diggins has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for the University of Minnesota Duluth in the NCHC.

The 6-foot-1 rookie from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Diggins has committed to the Bulldogs at the University of Minnesota Duluth. The ‘08 right-handed forward wrapped up his debut season in the League of Opportunity. The 18-year-old was a steady force for the Ice Dogs on the scoresheet, logging 47 points in his rookie season of junior hockey. Diggins was one game shy of playing in every contest this year for the Ice Dogs, lacing up in 58 regular-season games and five postseason contests. In the regular season, Diggins tallied 16 goals for the Midwest Division club and recorded 31 assists. Two of his tallies were scored in game-winning fashion for Fairbanks, while five goals were lit on the man advantage.

His offensive ability on the ice earned him the recognition as a Top Prospect for the annual Top Prospects Tournament. He played for the Selects White team in the two-day tournament and was crucial in lifting his team to a 3-2 victory over the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP). He scored the game-tying goal and then went on to provide an assist on the game-winning goal over the USNTDP. In addition to his work on the ice, he led his team on the scoresheet for the annual event with two tallies and an assist.

Diggins shares his excitement to commit to the Bulldogs program.

“I’m excited and honored to announce my commitment to the University of Minnesota Duluth. Thank you to my family, friends, teammates, coaches, and everyone who has supported me throughout my career. I’m also grateful to the Ice Dogs for helping me grow as both a hockey player and a person. Being part of this organization has played a major role in getting me to this point, and I’m excited to be a Bulldog in the future!”

Head coach of the Ice Dogs, Dakota Bell, shares more on why Diggins was an impact player for the team this past season.

“Mack made an immediate impact in our lineup from day one. He quickly earned the trust of his teammates and coaches, helping him succeed in the NAHL despite being one of the league’s youngest players. Mack does whatever is asked of him and can contribute anywhere in the lineup. We trusted him in every situation, and he delivered several memorable moments throughout the season. Every time he stepped on the ice, we knew he would give us his best because he holds himself to such a high standard. Minnesota Duluth is getting an outstanding person and a great hockey player. We are thrilled for Mack and his family and wish him continued success as his hard work keeps paying off!”

Diggins is one of eight members of the Fairbanks Ice Dogs to make a Division I college commitment.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list