Montana Tech Hockey Announces First Commits
Montana Tech University (Tech) Hockey has announced its first group of commitments for the 2023-2024 American Collegiate Hockey Association season.
Tech coaches and officials recently attended a showcase in Las Vegas this summer, which helped them increase visibility and attract prospects' attention.
Sawyer Inman, Boise, Idaho
Inman, a prospect from Boise, Idaho, will join the club to bolster their forward play. The 6-foot, 230-pound right-winger is expected to make an impact.
"I bring a good work ethic and am a good teammate and friend. On the ice, I dominate with strength and a good hockey IQ," said Inman.
Inman said he chose Tech because of its nearby nature and educational reputation.
Before starting his college hockey career, Inman played at Bishop Kelly High and the Boise Premier High School organization.
"Sawyer was one of our first commits. Coming from Boise Elite, Inman is a powerful forward with a fast, hard shot and can also play defense," said Coach Rathgeber. "We can rely on Sawyer to step up when needed. He was co-captain for his high school team, so we know he'll show leadership in the room and on the bench. He is a kind, smart kid with a big heart. He is a good friend and a great teammate."
Carter Ash, Everett, Washington
Ash, a 6-foot-3 defenseman, will suit up for Tech as a transfer from Park University (Gilbert, Arizona). Originally from Everett, Washington, he played AA for the Seattle Jr. Admirals NW U18 side. Last season, he scored a goal and made several assists, and he hopes to use his skills to help the Tech backline.
"We saw Carter at this year's Capper Hockey Las Vegas ACHA showcase and immediately liked his style. Assistant coach Coulombe got the opportunity to work the bench alongside Ash and was impressed by his ambition and attentiveness to detail," said Tech Head Coach Dave Rathgeber.
Ethan Elam, Missoula
Ethan Elam, a local Montana prospect from Missoula, will skate for Tech this season. Elam is a 5-foot-9 left-shot defenseman who spent last season in Junior A with the Islanders Hockey Club (Tyngsborough, MA) in the USPHL Elite League. While with the Islanders, he netted four goals and made several assists during the campaign. Before playing for the Islanders, he played two Montana High School Hockey seasons with Missoula.
"Elam is coming off a solid defensive season with the USPHL Elite Islanders," said Coach Rathgeber. "He compensates for his smaller stature (5-foot-9) with a smart defensive mindset and good playmaking ability. We're just as excited as he is to get on the ice this season," continued Rathgeber.
Ryan Patrick
Patrick, a forward from Spokane, Washington, has joined the 'Diggs following his tenure with the Spokane Chiefs Organization. He captained his 18U team and led the squad in scoring. Ryan is accustomed to high-pressure competitions, having been chosen to play on the 18UAA squad at the age of 15, which ultimately won the WA State championship in 2020.
"Ryan Patrick will undoubtedly be on our blue line at 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds. His hockey resume speaks for itself, playing for the Spokane Jr. Chiefs last year," Rathgeber said.
More on Tech Hockey
The Tech Hockey season is right around the corner. For more on Montana Tech Hockey, check out their website.
