Avalanche pair makes WCHA plans

The Alaska Avalanche has announced that defenseman Dan Senkbeil has committed to the University of North Dakota (WCHA) for the coming fall, while goaltender Landon Peterson has committed to the University of Wisconsin (WCHA).

Both players competed in the second North American Hockey League (NAHL) Top Prospects Tournament of the season, which was held in Ann Arbor, Mich., in February.

Senkbiel, a 19-year-old from Fremont, Calif., totaled 27 points on six goals in 41 regular-season games this past season. He was also a plus-18.

“Dan came to us with an opportunity to regain his confidence and show everyone what he’s capable of, and, to his credit, he accomplished that and now accomplished his goal of playing at a very highly-regarded hockey program in the University of North Dakota,” said Avalanche head coach Brian Huebel.

“We’re all very excited for him and, with the program’s history under (head coach) Dave (Hakstol), he’ll have an opportunity to play on a national title- contending team year in and year out.”

Peterson, a 21-year-old from Oregon, Wis., fashioned a 24-11-4 record in 45 regular-season appearances in 2010-11 to compliment a 2.74 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage.

“Landon’s character and hard work has paid off and we couldn't be happier to see him become a Badger,” said Huebel.  “Going back to Wisconsin, his home state, and getting an opportunity to play for (head coach) Mike (Eaves) is a great accomplishment for him. 

“He’ll be competing for the job there and, with their rich history of goaltenders, he has a tremendous opportunity to contribute to a top-end program and we know he’ll make the most of it.”

View the complete NAHL College Commitment List here.