Granite City forward and captain Altena makes NCAA commitment

February 21, 2018

The Granite City Lumberjacks of the NA3HL are pleased to announce that forward and team captain Braden Altena has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey at St. John’s University.

 

Altena, 21, has played the last three seasons for Granite City in the NA3HL and led the team to the NA3HL Silver Cup Championship in 2017. So far this season, the 5’7/155 lbs. native of St. Cloud, Minnesota, leads the Lumberjacks in scoring with 64 points (21 goals, 43 assists) in just 42 games played.

 

Altena was a superstar in Granite City’s run to the Silver Cup title last season. In 10 playoff games, he recorded 17 points. He was named to the 2017 NA3HL Silver Cup All-Tournament team for his efforts.

 

He was also selected to and played in the 2016 NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament. Overall in his NA3HL career, Altena has recorded 127 points in 125 career games.

 

“Braden has worked very hard the last three seasons to achieve his goal of playing at the NCAA level. Braden has been always been a leader here with his strong character and work ethic both on and off the ice. We look forward to seeing Braden play at St. John's University,” said Granite City head coach Brad Willner.

 

“I'm excited to continue my education and hockey career at such a great university.  I want to thank the entire Jacks organization for an amazing three years.  I would also like to thank my parents for their continued support throughout my hockey career,” said Altena.