UND Stars Strinden and Rickwood Launch Pro Careers with New AHL Contracts

Exciting New Chapters for Strinden and Rickwood

As April 15 marked a pivotal day for University of North Dakota (UND) hockey, two of its most promising players, Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood, signed their first professional contracts. Their commitment to the game and impressive collegiate careers have paved the way for this significant step.

Strinden inked a two-year deal with the Milwaukee Admirals, the AHL affiliate of the NHL's Nashville Predators. Strinden's contract will officially kick off at the start of the next season, but he will participate in this ongoing season on a tryout agreement. Meanwhile, Rickwood has signed a one-year deal with the Texas Stars, the primary affiliate of the Dallas Stars, also beginning next season, with the same tryout stipulation for this year.

Impressive Collegiate Careers

Both players showcased stellar performances this season, contributing significantly to UND's triumph as the National Collegiate Hockey Conference's Penrose Cup regular-season champions and their outstanding run to the NCAA Frozen Four. Individually, Strinden and Rickwood brought unique strengths to the roster:

Ben Strinden: Originating from Fargo, Strinden had a breakout senior year, netting 15 goals and registering 35 points in 38 games. Drafted in the seventh round by Nashville in 2022, his resilience and scoring ability have made him a promising prospect.
Ellis Rickwood: A transfer from Clarkson, Rickwood led UND in points, tallying nine goals and 37 points in 35 games. His ability to center a top line highlighted his unique playmaking talents. Additionally, he joins forces again with former Clarkson teammate Ayrton Martino in Austin.

Movement Within UND's Hockey Ranks

With these signings, a total of five players from the 2025-26 UND team are on the verge of professional careers. This includes:

Defenseman Abram Wiebe signed with the Calgary Flames,
Defenseman Jake Livanavage made his NHL debut with the Pittsburgh Penguins,
Winger Dylan James secured a two-year deal with the Detroit Red Wings starting next season.

James will also finish this year on a tryout deal with the Grand Rapids Griffins, making for an exciting upcoming match as he may face off against former teammate Strinden on Friday night when Grand Rapids visits Milwaukee.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on the transitions these young athletes are making, it's essential to acknowledge the unique challenges and opportunities professional sports present. The road ahead may be tough, with increased competition and pressure, but their seamless transition from collegiate success to professional hockey speaks volumes about their preparedness and potential.

Both Strinden and Rickwood are prime examples of talent and tenacity, and I anticipate following their careers as they aim not just to succeed, but to leave a lasting mark on the game they love.

Key Facts

Players Signed: Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood signed professional contracts to begin their careers in the AHL.
Strinden's Contract: Ben Strinden signed a two-year deal with the Milwaukee Admirals, starting next season, while finishing this season on a tryout.
Rickwood's Contract: Ellis Rickwood signed a one-year deal with the Texas Stars, also starting next season, with a tryout for the current season.
Achievements: Both players helped UND win the National Collegiate Hockey Conference's Penrose Cup and reach the NCAA Frozen Four.
Strinden's Performance: Ben Strinden scored 15 goals and recorded 35 points in 38 games during his senior year.
Rickwood's Performance: Ellis Rickwood led UND in points with nine goals and 37 points in 35 games.
Professional Transition: Five players from the 2025-26 UND team are now signed with professional teams.

Background

Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood's transition to professional hockey marks a significant milestone following their successful college careers at UND.

Quick Answers

Who are Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood?: Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood are standout seniors from UND's hockey team who have signed professional contracts in the AHL.
What teams did Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood sign with?: Ben Strinden signed with the Milwaukee Admirals, and Ellis Rickwood signed with the Texas Stars.
When will Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood's contracts begin?: Their contracts will begin next season, with both players participating this season on tryout agreements.
What achievements did Strinden and Rickwood accomplish at UND?: Strinden and Rickwood contributed to UND winning the Penrose Cup and advancing to the NCAA Frozen Four.
What were Ben Strinden's statistics during his senior year?: Ben Strinden scored 15 goals and tallied 35 points in 38 games during his senior season.
What were Ellis Rickwood's statistics during his senior year?: Ellis Rickwood led UND with nine goals and 37 points in 35 games.
How many players from UND are transitioning to professional hockey?: Five players from the 2025-26 UND team are now signed with professional teams.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the future prospects for Strinden and Rickwood?

Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood are expected to make an impact in the AHL as they begin their professional careers.

Which player came from Clarkson to join UND?

Ellis Rickwood transferred from Clarkson to play for UND.

What is significant about the transition from college to professional hockey?

The transition from college to professional hockey presents both challenges and opportunities for players like Strinden and Rickwood.

Source reference: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/ben-strinden-ellis-rickwood-sign-003400655.html