Hockey

Augustana Vikings Add Eight New Players Ahead of 2026‑27 Season

Roster expansion brings fresh talent, including NAHL veterans and a BCHL goalie of the year, as the team eyes a stronger offensive and defensive lineup

The Augustana Vikings hockey program announced a major roster overhaul for the upcoming 2026‑27 season, adding eight new skaters that swell the team’s total to 28 players.

A Diverse Talent Pool

The incoming class blends seasoned junior veterans with promising freshmen, featuring two defensemen, four forwards and two goaltenders. Their backgrounds span multiple continents, bringing a mix of Canadian, American and Belarusian talent to Sioux Falls.

Erick Comstock, a defenseman, arrives after a 36‑point campaign (5 goals, 32 assists) with the Watertown Shamrocks in the NAHL, bringing offensive upside to the blue line.

Jacob Fletcher, another defenseman, transfers from Lindenwood University where he posted 25 points (14 goals, 11 assists) in the 2025‑26 season, adding depth and experience to the defensive corps.

Between the pipes, Mathis Langevin joins from Miami (Ohio) after guiding the Rimouski Océanic to the Memorial Cup playoffs, posting a 12‑4 record and a .944 save percentage.

Matsvei Marshchanok, a forward, led the NAHL in points with 87 (31 goals, 56 assists) in 2025‑26, while his twin brother Siamion ranked second with 96 points (65 assists).

Forward Heath Nelson contributed 45 points (21 goals, 24 assists) for the Victoria Royals of the WHL, and defenseman Ryan Whiterabbit tallied 19 goals for the Waterloo Black Hawks in the USHL.

Goalkeeper Angelo Zol was crowned both BCHL Goalie of the Year and Most Valuable Player in 2025‑26 with the West Kelowna Warriors, underscoring his elite performance.

The new roster reflects a deliberate international recruitment strategy, with three Canadian‑born players, three Americans and the Marshchanok twins representing Belarus, enriching the team’s cultural fabric.

The goalie position was left open when Josh Kotai signed with the New York Islanders, and the freshly signed net‑minders are expected to battle for the starting role during training camp.

Across the board, the Vikings’ coaching staff believes the blend of junior experience, collegiate transfers and standout goaltending will fortify both offensive and defensive lines, positioning the club for a competitive season ahead.

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