A Diverse Incoming Class
The University of Denver's hockey program unveiled eight new freshmen who will join the roster for the 2026‑27 season, bringing together a blend of talent, leadership and championship experience.
Four forwards and four defensemen make up the class, each arriving from distinct hockey ecosystems across North America and Europe.
Draft Selections and International Medals
Mikey Berchild, a forward from Excelsior, Minnesota, enters the program with eligibility for the 2026 NHL Draft and a résumé that includes a bronze medal with Team USA at the 2025 U18 Worlds and a gold at the 2024 Youth Olympic Games.
Blake Fiddler, a defenseman from Frisco, Texas, was chosen by the Seattle Kraken in the 2025 NHL Draft and earned a bronze medal at the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship while also capturing gold at the 2023 World Under‑17 Hockey Challenge.
Max Heise, another forward from Calgary, Alberta, was selected by the San Jose Sharks in the 2025 Draft and has been lauded as Prince Albert's Best Defensive Forward and Humanitarian of the Year after leading the Prince Albert Raiders to a strong season.
Ryan Lin, a defenseman from Richmond, British Columbia, joins the Pioneers after being named to the 2025 Canadian Hockey League All‑Rookie Team and reaching the WHL Rookie of the Year final.
Pathways to the Pioneers
Berchild's junior career spanned the U.S. National Team Development Program and Shattuck‑St. Mary's, while Fiddler honed his game with the Edmonton Oil Kings in the Western Hockey League.
Heise's path included stints with the Prince Albert Raiders and the Penticton Vees of the BC Hockey League, and Lin's experience came with the Vancouver Giants.
Beyond club play, each recruit carries personal ambitions that range from chasing a national championship to earning a spot in the NHL, reflecting the program's blend of athletic and academic ambition.
The incoming class also benefits from the guidance of seasoned staff, including head coach David Carle, assistant coaches Vernon Fiddler, Riley Fiddler‑Schultz and Frank McCool, who together aim to elevate the team's competitive edge.