New Cadet Cohort Arrives
The U.S. Air Force Academy announced this week that it has welcomed eleven members of the Class of 2030 onto its hockey roster, each having completed Basic Cadet Training by June 24.
These recruits come from a variety of junior circuits, including the USHL, NAHL and the British Columbia Hockey League, where they have logged extensive game experience and earned recognition for their performances.
On‑Ice Highlights
Among them, Brady Arneson brings a record of 163 USHL appearances and 17 points from the 2025‑26 season with the Omaha Lancers, while Christian Kim impressed with an eight‑game goal streak and two Player‑of‑the‑Week honors in the BCHL.
Grant DeNuccio contributed 37 points for the Cranbrook Bucks, and Francois DeVilliers captained the championship‑winning Brooks Bandits, capturing the league’s ‘Hustle’ award for his relentless effort.
Duke Gentzler served as captain of the Anchorage Wolverines in the NAHL and led Salisbury School’s Knights to the Elite Eight semifinals, showcasing both leadership and clutch play.
Zander Lipsett was named Top Prospects Impact Player of the Year with the Austin Bruins, while Garin Ludwig earned Defenseman of the Year honors for the Vernon Vipers in 2024‑25.
Carson Pavlowich, Gavin Reed, Harper Searles and Jack Solomon each added notable accolades — assistant captaincy, top‑scoring defenseman, the Curt Hammer Award for community service, and Goaltender of the Year in the NAHL — highlighting a blend of skill and character.
All eleven graduates maintained strong academic records, with GPAs reaching as high as 4.1, underscoring the Academy’s commitment to developing well‑rounded leaders.