**Gavin McKenna** Commits to Penn State

A top prospect in junior hockey is trading his skates for textbooks, at least part-time. **Gavin McKenna**, widely projected as a top pick in the NHL, has announced his commitment to Penn State University.

Nittany Lions Land a Star

The official announcement came Tuesday, confirming that forward **Gavin McKenna** will join Penn State University for the 2025-26 NCAA season. Prior to the draft, the Medicine Hat Tigers star had been expected to play college hockey in the U.S.

Speculation had been intense regarding **McKenna’s** destination. Ultimately, he picked Penn State over Michigan State, another Big Ten powerhouse. Reports suggest his name, image, and likeness rights could reach approximately $700,000.

A Standout Player

**McKenna** has many qualities that make him an exceptional prospect. His vision and awareness stand out, and he excelled in the Western Hockey League last season. He set a CHL record for the longest point streak, racking up 40 goals and 173 points in 54 games.

The Yukon native tallied 41 goals and 88 assists for a total of 129 points in only 56 games, finishing second in league scoring. Across 23 playoff games, **McKenna** added another 38 points, as the Tigers captured the Ed Chynoweth Cup as WHL Champions. At the Memorial Cup, **McKenna** led Medicine Hat to the championship game with six points, where they fell to the London Knights.

Accolades Mount for **McKenna**

**McKenna’s** young career has been marked by numerous accomplishments. He was named CHL and WHL Player of the Year this season and earned a spot on the Memorial Cup All-Star Team. Last fall, he contributed to Canada’s gold medal win at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. His standout performance at the 2024 IIHF Under-18 Women’s World Championship also helped Team Canada secure gold.

Nittany Lions Bolster Roster

**McKenna** represents a significant addition for the Nittany Lions. Following their first-ever appearance in the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four, coach **Guy Gadwosky** and his staff have successfully recruited several noteworthy players from the Canadian Hockey League. Among the new recruits are **Kale Dach**, **Nathan Free**, and **Connor Bewick**.

Since the NCAA Division I Council approved the rule change allowing former major junior players to compete in U.S. college hockey, many teams have pursued talent from the WHL, Ontario Hockey League, and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League. The decision to allow CHL players to be eligible to play NCAA hockey has greatly expanded recruitment opportunities for college programs, leveling the playing field, as more players choose the college route prior to potentially going pro (NCAA.org).