Riche commits to NCAA’s Quinnipiac University Men’s Hockey following junior career
Saskatoon, SK – Saskatoon Blades forward Ben Riche announced his commitment to the NCAA’s Quinnipiac University Men’s Hockey team on Monday.
The Blades’ leading scorer this season will join Quinnipiac University Athletics for the 2026-27 season upon the conclusion of his Western Hockey League (WHL) eligibility.
“I’m excited to announce my commitment to Quinnipiac University for the 2026-2027 season,” said Riche, “I’m also so grateful to be given the opportunity to wear a Blades sweater and play in the best organization in the WHL. I’d like to thank the Blades’ coaching staff and management for the endless support and opportunity to become a better player and person. I’m excited to finish my WHL career to the fullest and continue improving.”
The Bethune, SK product was acquired by the Blades in May from the Victoria Royals in exchange for overage forward Vaughn Watterodt. In his first season with the Blue and Gold, Riche has set new career highs in goals (16), assists (22), and points (38) in 26 games. The 5-foot-11 speedster leads the team in points and currently has six points (2G, 4A) on his current five-game point streak.
“We’re extremely proud that Ben has made an NCAA commitment to Quinnipiac following his WHL career,” said Blades general manager, Colin Priestner, “He’s been one of the most electric offensive players in the league this year and a big reason we are first place in the conference. We’re thrilled to partner with Quinnipiac in aiding his development over the next season and a half to prepare him for NCAA hockey.”
Riche has 39 goals, 52 assists, and 91 points in 159 career WHL games between the Blades, Royals, and Moose Jaw Warriors.
The NCAA Division I Council voted November 7 that players who have skated in one of the three Canadian Hockey Leagues (CHL) — the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and the WHL — will be permitted to play NCAA hockey effective Aug. 1, 2025. Previously, CHL players had been considered professionals and barred because of the NCAA’s amateurism rules, in part because some CHL players have signed NHL entry-level contracts.
The Blades want to congratulate Riche on his commitment to NCAA Division I hockey and look forward to him continuing his WHL career with the Blue and Gold!
