August 28, 2020 Salt Lake City, Utah
University of Utah Hockey has received a commitment from Forward Benji Mickel for the upcoming 2020-21 season.
“I am very excited to announce my commitment to continue my collegiate career as a Ute for the 2020-21 season,” Mickel said.
Benji was born in Durango, Colorado, and grew up playing hockey for the local youth programs. At the beginning of his Junior year of high school, he moved to Woodbury, Minnesota, and played for the Hill Murray High School Hockey program. After completing his junior year of high school, Mickel joined the North American 3 Hockey League and played for the New Ulm Steel.
Following 2017 high school graduation, Benji moved to Salt Lake City and played two seasons with the Utah Outliers in Western States Hockey League. During his final season with the Outliers, he was the Assistant Captain and tallied 25 goals and 27 assists for 52 points in just 51 games.
From the Outliers, Benji moved back to the mid-west and began his collegiate career with the Gustavus Adolphus College National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 3 program in St. Peter, Minnesota. He will be transferring to Utah after one season with the Golden Gusties.
“We are thrilled have Benji wearing a Utah jersey this season. His vast experience and offensive prowess will certainly have a major impact in the offensive zone for the team,” Utah GM AJ Boldan said.
In the off season, Benji enjoys white water rafting and kayaking and loves to hit the slopes when he can.
Mickel plans to study Finance with a minor in Economics at the U.
Utah Hockey would like to welcome Benji and wish him the absolute best in the upcoming season!