Anchorage forward Westin makes NCAA DI commitment
Anchorage forward Aiden Westin played in the NAPHL for four seasons before two more in the NAHL, which ultimately led to his NCAA Division I commitment.
The Anchorage Wolverines of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that Assistant Captain and forward Aiden Westin will be staying in his hometown for his college hockey career, as he has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for the University of Alaska-Anchorage beginning in the 2023-24 season.
Westin, 20, is currently in his second season of playing junior hockey in the NAHL. The 6’1/185 lbs. native of Anchorage, Alaska, is currently leading the Wolverines in scoring during the 2022-23 season with 40 points (19 goals, 21 assists) in 33 games played. His 40 points is good for 4th in scoring in the NAHL.
“Nothing beats the opportunity to play at home in front of family friends and fans. Playing in my hometown the past two seasons has been the best experience of my life and I’d like to continue to do so in the next stage of my career,” said Westin.
During his rookie season in 2021-22, Westin recorded 51 points in 54 games played and also put up six points in 10 Robertson Cup Playoff games, helping the Wolverines reach the Robertson Cup Championship game.
“The Seawolves are very excited for Aiden to be joining our program next year. He is a local kid with great talent and character who has thrived playing for the Wolverines and wants to continue his education and playing career at home,” said Seawolves Head Coach Matt Shasby. “This is exactly what we were hoping would happen when the Wolverines were established, the best Alaska kids staying and playing for their hometown Junior and University program. Alaska hockey is in a great place. Go Seawolves.”
Westin is another great example of the ladder of development between the NAHL and the NAPHL. He played three years in the NAPHL leading up to playing in the NAHL, which included two seasons with the Alaska Oilers and one season with the New Jersey Jr. Titans. During the 2020-21 season, he played 18U hockey in the NAPHL with the Maine Nordiques.
The commitment marks the very first Anchorage Wolverines player to commit with the Seawolf team they share a hometown with. “We are honored to have Aiden Westin committing to UAA. As a former player, Captain and Assistant Coach of the team, I am excited to see a true Anchorage born and bred player come up from Learn to Skate, U8 Hockey, the Wolverines and now the Seawolves,” said Keith Morris, Director of Hockey Operations for the Wolverines.
The UAA Seawolves compete at the NCAA Division I ranks and are currently 4-14-0 overall this season. Notably, the Seawolves recently swept then-ranked #13 UMass Lowell on the road.
Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list
