Albuquerque, NM – The New Mexico Ice Wolves are pleased to announce that we have acquired Cole Hanson from the Minot Minotauros. Hanson is a 19-year-old forward from Grand Forks, ND.
Hanson is in his rookie season in the North American Hockey League (NAHL) and has played 32 games for Minot this season (4g-7a). Prior to entering the NAHL, Hanson spent the last three seasons playing for Grand Forks Central High (USHS-ND). Current Ice Wolves defenseman Brandon Holt also played for Grand Forks Central.
The 5-10 176-pound right-handed shooter has totaled 132 points (66g, 66a) in 79 games played at the high-school level. Last year, Hanson led his team in scoring by putting up a staggering 71 points (39g, 32a) in only 25 games.
Hanson is currently committed to the United States Air Force Academy (Atlantic Hockey, DI), but still has another year of junior eligibility.
“I’m extremely excited to join a classy organization like the New Mexico Ice Wolves,” Hanson said. “I believe the coaching staff and personnel in place will push me to become a better hockey player.”
When asked about joining forces with Brandon Holt again, Hanson said, “Brandon and I have been lifelong friends so it’s pretty cool to be able to play with him again.”
Ice Wolves Head Coach Phil Fox said, “We are very excited to have Hanson join us the rest of the way. He is a speedy forward that utilizes the entire 200 feet.” Fox went on to add, “We look forward to continuing to develop his game and believe he will be a big asset for us down the road. We hope to prepare Hanson with the right tools he needs before going to the Air Force Academy.”
The NM Ice Wolves will always make decisions that are in the best interest of both the team and individual players, who choose our organization as the place to develop their full potential for college hockey and beyond. The entire New Mexico Ice Wolves organization would like to welcome Hanson to the team and look forward to his first game in an Ice Wolves jersey.