Minnesota Magicians forward and captain Kris McKinzie has committed to play Division III college hockey at the College of St. Scholastica of the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA). A Duluth, Minnesota native, McKinzie was a leader both on and off the ice for the Magicians over two seasons, and he finished his career ranked 2nd all-time with 97 career regular season games played for the franchise.
After playing his high school hockey at Duluth Marshall of the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL), McKinzie was a member of the first ever Minnesota Magicians team. During the 2013-2014 season, he played in 37 games and contributed 2 goals and 3 assists. During the 2014-2015 season he emerged as a veteran leader for the Magicians, playing in all 63 games through the regular season and playoffs. With the increased workload, his offensive numbers increased as well, as he scored 9 goals to go along with 7 assists. In addition to his contributions on the ice, McKinzie was also the most active member of the Magicians in the local community, making numerous appearances at the local elementary schools and hospitals.
Magicians Head Coach Tom Upton had this to say about McKinzie, "Kris was an instrumental part of our team in building our culture and expectation this past season. He was a leader and brought an unbelieveable desire to get better every day to the rink. Kris is one of the best people I have ever had the opportunity to coach and all of us with the Magicians are extremely excited and proud for his opportunity to play college hockey at a great program and tradition in St. Scholastica. We wish him the best of luck!"
Speaking about his committment, McKinzie said, "My time with the Magicians was the most memorable years of my life. Living with a great billet family, in a great city, and in a great state. The coaches were more than coaches, they were mentors and friends. The facilities are second to none. I wouldn't have wanted to spend my junior career with another organization. I want to thank the entire Magicians staff for the opportunity I have been given to play hockey at the collegiate level."