The University of Nebraska‑Omaha is set to bolster its roster this fall, bringing in nine first‑year players who could prove pivotal in the program’s push up the National Collegiate Hockey Conference standings.
Freshman Class Overview
Among the newcomers, forward Riley Ashe arrives from the Prince George Cougars of the WHL, where he contributed 12 points in 44 games in a depth role, while Aiden Oiring, also a forward, comes from the Prince Albert Raiders after posting a league‑leading 69 points in 68 games last season.
Vincent Desjardins, a defenseman from the Blainville‑Boisbriand Armada in the QMJHL, brings a playmaking pedigree after leading his team in assists with 113 over two seasons, and Carter Sotheran, another blue‑liner, previously logged 72 points and 77 penalty minutes with the Edmonton Oil Kings.
Jakub Hes, a forward from the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL, posted 28 points and a plus‑20 rating across 58 games, whereas Lincoln Hjelm, a forward from the Tri‑City Storm, is noted for his shot‑blocking prowess and face‑off efficiency.
Gavin Hodnett, a forward who captained the Edmonton Oil Kings for two years and was part of the 2022 Ed Chynoweth Cup championship squad, adds leadership and a proven scoring touch, while Carsten Kayter, who averaged roughly half a point per game with the Victoria Royals, contributes steady offensive output.
Logan Wormald, a forward from the Spokane Chiefs, is described as a strong defensive presence and a slippery net‑minder, rounding out a diverse group of talents.
Coach Matt Bardsley, who joins the staff as an assistant, will help integrate these prospects into the program’s culture, aiming to translate their junior successes into collegiate impact.