Steinbach Piston Hoffman commits to Tennessee State

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The Pistons’ Grady Hoffman is taking a chance with his NCAA division 1 decision.

The 2005-born Hoffman has committed to Tennessee State University, the first historically black college and university (HBCU) in the United States to start a division 1 hockey program.

The school’s program is headed by Duanté Abercrombie, who will become the first black head coach in NCAA hockey history when the Tigers take to the ice to start their first year of play in 2025.

Grady Hoffman lets a shot go during Manitoba Junior Hockey League action earlier this season. Hoffman has committed to Tennessee State University, a Nashville-based school which will become the first first historically black college and university to introduce division 1 NCAA hockey in 2025. (Cassidy Dankochik The Carillon)
Grady Hoffman lets a shot go during Manitoba Junior Hockey League action earlier this season. Hoffman has committed to Tennessee State University, a Nashville-based school which will become the first first historically black college and university to introduce division 1 NCAA hockey in 2025. (Cassidy Dankochik The Carillon)

Hoffman is one of seven players who are listed on Elite Prospects on Tennessee State’s roster, including three other Canadians. Just hours before Hoffman’s commitment was announced, Brooks Bandits goaltender Johnny Hicks also signed for the Tigers.

The Yorkton-born Hoffman had a strong first season in the Automobile City, posting 49 points in 53 games last year. He was named an assistant captain this season, and has started out the season strong, notching five points in his first five games.

Tennessee State is based out of Nashville and will begin play as an independent school in the NCAA’s top division of hockey.

For more MJHL coverage, be sure to check out The Carillon’s print edition, which features game recaps, standings and statistics every week.

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