Brian Buchholz of the Northwest Chargers has committed to join the Redbird Hockey family for the 2023-24 season.
Brian, considered to be among the top Central States Development Hockey League defensemen this season competed in the CSDHL All-Star game at the Arctic Ice Arena.
Associate Head Coach Michael Hernbrott had been scouting and speaking with Brian throughout the year and was impressed. “Brian brings a great deal of hockey skill to the program. He sees the ice well, carries the puck up with strength and is able to make good decisions. We see him adding to our strong depth at defense to start. He has a great deal of potential to continue to develop through the organizational depth chart in his time here.”
Why he chose Illinois State.
“I knew ISU was the place for me because everyone was so kind and welcoming. It’s a great business school with a wide variety of studies and a solid hockey program.” Brian will be studying Business Administration or Marketing
Brian’s favorite Coaches were Mike and Dan Perillo “because they have given me many opportunities to learn and grow as a player. I’m so grateful for what they’ve taught me to help me be the player I am today.”
Coach Mike Perillo had this to say about Brian. “This year Brian has elevated his game to another level. His quickness, gives him the ability to rush the puck up ice. There is also no better shot blocker than Brian. His awareness on the ice is tremendous. I look forward to see Brian grow with the Illinois State Hockey program”.
Brian credits his family for their support throughout his youth hockey career.
When asked about his biggest on ice memories he recalled “The biggest goal I had was a double overtime winner to advance our team in state and the biggest assist was when I gave a back door pass to my teammate and give him his first ever hat trick.”
Off ice his favorite memories involved “Going away on hockey trips and playing shinny hockey with the boys in the hotel.”
Brian is most looking forward to “meeting many new faces and starting the next chapter in my life.”
He has a younger brother named Aiden
If you’re interested in playing for ISU Hockey, we encourage you to fill out our Recruit Form under the team tab on our website!