13 hockey Wildcats from Northern Michigan University earn national academic honors
MARQUETTE — The 2021-22 school year is rapidly approaching, but some members of the Northern Michigan University hockey team are still racking up academic awards from the past season.
A record 13 Wildcats were named American Hockey Coaches Association-Krampade All-American Scholars on Tuesday, including senior captains Joe Nardi and alternate captain Ben Newhouse.
Three juniors made the team in goalie Nolan Kent, forward Garrett Klee and former forward Ty Readman.
Four sophomores and four freshmen were also on the list with the sophomores including forward Andre Ghantous, defenseman Tanner Vescio and former goalies John Hawthorne and John Roberts.
The freshmen were represented by Mack Byers, Tim Erkkila, Connor Marritt and Brett Willits.
Four of the Wildcats had a cumulative grade-point average of 4.0 last season, including Byers, Erkkila, Marritt and Hawthorne, while Newhouse, Roberts and Vescio accomplished the feat in one semester during the school year.
To be eligible for the award, student-athletes must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.60 or higher.
The Wildcats open their season Oct. 8-9 with a home series against Division I newcomer and CCHA member St. Thomas.
Information compiled by Journal Sports Writer Ryan Stieg. His email address is rstieg@miningjournal.net.