Day 1 of the NAHL offseason began with the first roster move today when the Wisconsin Windigo acquired two-year veteran defenseman Cole Mickel from the Minot Minotauros. In exchange the Windigo sent forward Hunter Longhi to Minot.
A product of Culver Academy, the Broomfield, Colorado native has skated the past two seasons with the Minotauros. Mickel played 99 games in that time, scoring 13 goals and 49 points. The 20-year old was team captain in Minot this past season.
New team head coach Blake Hietala had nothing but praise for Mickel saying, “I couldn’t be more excited to add Cole to the roster. He has established himself as one of the best defensemen in the league and will fit our style of play very well. His skill set, leadership qualities, and experience will be a valuable addition to our organization as we begin to establish a culture of development and winning.”
Mickel made his college commitment in January 2022 and will attend Niagara University in 2023.
#NAHL Commitment Alert: @MinotauroHockey captain and defenseman Cole Mickel has committed to play NCAA Division I @collegehockey for @NiagaraMHKY in @Atlantic_Hockey #MadeintheNA https://t.co/W396LJOtwp pic.twitter.com/xp16SBaXnN
— NAHL (@NAHLHockey) January 24, 2022
An excited Mickel commented on the move today saying, “Obviously it was a bit of a shock at first getting the call that I had been traded, but I cannot be more excited to get started in Eagle River! It’s a great opportunity to really impress people in our first season and the group of guys as well as the staff have been top class since I’ve joined the organization. I’m so excited for the season and to start to the run for the Robby Cup.”
Thank you @MinotauroHockey for a great 2 years. Can’t put into words how amazing it was, but I can’t wait to get started with @WiscWindigo this upcoming season! pic.twitter.com/sgmb3FwZYy
— Cole Mickel (@ColeMickel6) May 25, 2022