The Rebels are pleased to announce that defenseman Mason Van Tuyl has committed to play NCAA Division III Ice Hockey for the University of Wisconsin-River Falls Falcons, who play in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, which is part of the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association. His commitment begins in the fall of 2016.
Van Tuyl, 20, played 47 games during the regular season. The Champlin, MN native had eight points (one goal and seven assists). He had a +4 +/- ratio. He had two points (both assists) in all eight playoff games with a +7 +/- ratio. While possessing excellent skating and stick handling skills, Van Tuyl was a classical “stay-at-home” defenseman. He was an integral member of a defensive core that allowed the fifth least amount of goals in the league.
"I would like to thank my coaches, especially Coach Coombs, and teammates from the last two years for the experiences I have shared with them” stated Van Tuyl. “I wouldn't have wanted to play for anyone else. There is nothing I would change. The challenges and hardships have made me a better person and hockey player. With the support of my family and friends, I am excited to move on to the next chapter of my life and hockey career at the University Wisconsin-River Falls” concluded Van Tuyl.
“Mason is going to be hard to replace” said Rebels head coach Joe Coombs. “He has been with us for three years and we certainly will miss him. His leadership and compete level are exactly what we look for in a Rebel. I wish him nothing but the best” stated Coombs.
Located in River Falls, WI, the Falcons are coached by Steve Freeman. This past season the team had an overall 16-7-5 record. The school has won three NCAA Division III national ice hockey championships.
