Northern Michigan University’s men’s hockey program has unveiled a 14‑player incoming class that features six transfers and eight freshmen, a move designed to reinforce depth and competitiveness for the 2026‑27 season.
The transfer group draws talent from a variety of leagues, including the NCHC, CCHA, ECAC, USports and the American Hockey Association, ensuring a mix of NCAA experience and junior‑level success.
Defenseman Noah Houle arrives from Clarkson and Lindenwood, bringing SJHL Defenseman of the Year honors and a reputation for steady two‑way play. Forward Branden Piku joins from Lake Superior State, where he accumulated 44 career points and earned NAHL postseason recognition.
Brendan Lamb, a right‑shot forward who logged 179 USHL games for Mercyhurst, adds offensive experience, while Reilley Kotai, a standout from UBC who led the Mustangs to an SJHL Championship, brings international flair and scoring punch.
The defensive corps also includes Ian Engel, a left‑shot transfer from North Dakota who captured an NCHC title and earned NAHL experience, Merril Steenari, a USHL All‑Star and Johnny Gaudreau Award finalist from Colorado College, and Jason Davenport, a USHL defenseman known for his offensive and defensive versatility.
The freshman class features five forwards and three defensemen sourced from the CHL, USHL, Finnish leagues, the BCHL, NAHL and MJHL, offering a diverse set of skills and adaptability that should enrich the team’s dynamics.
Coach Dave Shyiak, now in his third season at the helm, will guide the Wildcats as they open their 50th Anniversary campaign against Miami (Ohio) and Michigan State, with the first home matchup scheduled for October 2‑3 at the Berry Events Center.
Following that opening series, the Wildcats will host Stonehill on October 16‑17, setting a schedule that emphasizes both rebuilding and the celebration of a half‑century of hockey tradition.
A New Era of Wildcats Hockey
The combination of seasoned transfers and promising newcomers creates a narrative of renewal, as the program seeks to honor its storied past while forging a competitive future under Shyiak’s direction.