Lake Region State College Men’s Hockey Announces 2025-2026 Commitments
Lake Region State College is excited to announce six new commitments to the Royals men's hockey team for the 2025-2026 season. The incoming class includes a mix of talented forwards, defensemen, and goalies from across North Dakota, Minnesota, and British Columbia, with two local standouts from the Devils Lake area.
Goalies
Jaden Kleinjan (#1) – Bismarck, ND
Jaden joins the Royals from the Bismarck Century Patriots. Having played with some of the top players in the region, Jaden impressed the coaching staff early on. "Jaden made an impact on us when he joined us for prospecting camp last summer. We knew right then he would be a great fit for the Royals," said Head Coach Brady Stein. Jaden follows in the footsteps of his older brother Tyler Kleinjan, who played hockey and baseball at Lake Region State before continuing his collegiate baseball career at Mayville State University.
Carson Cronquist (#72) – New London, MN
Carson, a goalie from New London, Minnesota, played high school hockey with the River Lakes Stars and spent time in the NA3HL with the Willmar Warhawks. Reflecting on his hockey journey, Carson shared, "Growing up, hockey was the best time of my life. Playing in a small town where everyone knew each other made every game feel special, with parents and friends filling the stands. It was all about the fun, early mornings, late nights, and memories that still stick with me today."
Defensemen
Donnovin Fiorentino (#23) – Cranbrook, BC
A 5'11", 170-pound right-handed defenseman, Donnovin brings size, skill, and experience to the Royals. He played for the East Kootenay Avalanche AA (2021-2022, 2023-2024), Golden Rockets (2022-2023), and most recently with the Kootenay Hockey Academy in the Junior Prospect Hockey League. In the 2023-2024 season, he scored 16 points in 34 games. Coach Stein noted, "Donnovin will have an immediate impact on our lineup with his skill set and ability to make plays on both ends of the ice."
Matthew Wherley (#14) – International Falls, MN
Matthew, 5'9" and 165 pounds, is a versatile two-way forward/defenseman who shoots right. After three productive varsity seasons in International Falls, scoring 41 points, Matthew continued his development in junior hockey with the Fort Frances Lakers (SIJHL) and the Minnesota Wilderness (NA3HL). Coach Stein added, "We're excited to utilize Matthew in various opportunities to both score and defend. His versatility as a two-way player makes him a valuable addition to our team."
Forwards
Austin Thompson (#3) – Devils Lake, ND
Austin comes to the Royals from Devils Lake, where he played three seasons with the Firebirds and most recently with the Badlands Sabres in the NA3HL. Known for his intensity and work ethic, Austin is eager to represent his community at the collegiate level. Coach Stein commented, "We're thrilled to welcome Austin to the Royals. He brings speed, determination, and a high hockey IQ, and we can't wait to see him continue where he left off and get right to work."
Brody Parker (#13) – Cando, ND
A local product, Brody brings high energy, speed, and a relentless work ethic to the Royals forward group. During his three seasons with the Firebirds, he totaled 62 points, consistently driving the play and attacking the net. Coach Stein who previously coached Brody to a Bantam A state tournament championship in 2020-2021, remarked, "Having Brody and Austin join our team is especially exciting. Both are local talents who know the community and bring a level of energy and work ethic that will inspire our entire roster."
Looking Ahead
With this incoming class, the Royals are excited about the mix of local talent and skilled recruits from across the region. Coach Stein added, "This group of six brings a great combination of speed, offensive talent, and versatility. The two local players, Austin and Brody, bring hometown pride and leadership that will elevate our team. We're looking forward to a competitive and exciting season ahead."