Louisiana Forward Neish Makes College Commitment

The Louisiana Drillers of the North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) are proud to announce that forward, Brody Neish, has committed to play ACHA Division I college hockey for Illinois State University (Normal, Illinois).

Neish has spent considerable time in the North American Hockey League umbrella of leagues. He played for the Drillers for four consecutive seasons, while earning call ups throughout his NA3HL career to appear in 12 North American Hockey League games. During the 2023-24 season, he played in three games for the Oklahoma Warriors. He began the 2024-25 season with the Shreveport Mudbugs before making an appearance for the Lone Star Brahmas. He finished out the season with the Drillers and remained there for the rest of his time in the league.

During the 2025-26 season, he boasted an impressive 155 points during the regular season consisting of 62 goals and 93 assists, and an additional 19 points in the postseason, where he added seven goals and 12 assists to his record.

He led the league in points scored and assists, and was ranked #3 in the league for goals scored. 

In February of 2025, Neish was selected to compete in the Top Prospects Tournament. The tournament consisted of the best uncommitted players in the NA3HL. Neish represented the NA3HL on team Yellow where he recorded two goals and one assist during the tournament. He also played in the 2023 NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament. 

He was named to the 2026 All-NA3HL First team. He was also a part of the 2025 Fraser Cup Championship Winning team.

“Super excited for Brody and his next step in his hockey journey. Illinois State is getting a great player who will join their program and make an immediate impact,” said Chris Francis, head coach of the Drillers. “Sad that my time with Brody is over but he helped this franchise get to where it wanted to be and is leaving behind a great legacy. I thank him for everything he has done and look forward to watching him at the next level! 

Neish had two seven-point games during the season. One of his best performances was against the Bayou State Rougarou on Oct 31. He scored four goals and recorded three assists to aid in the Drillers’ 14-2 victory over the Rougarou.

Neish is one of eight players from the Louisiana Drillers to make a college commitment this season.