SISU Thunderbirds Celebrate First NCAA Commitment
This week, 2005-born post-grad Connor Randell committed to Hiram College, an NCAA Division III hockey program set to debut in the 2025-26 season, located near Cleveland, Ohio. This milestone marks the first NCAA advancement not only for the SISU Thunderbirds College Prep team but for the entire SISU Thunderbirds organization.
At SISU Thunderbirds, the focus is on developing players and preparing them for the next level. This achievement demonstrates the program’s dedication to its mission and showcases its potential to foster NCAA-ready talent.
Randell joined the College Prep team this season after playing in the EHLP last year. His leadership quickly stood out, earning him the honor of becoming the first captain in SISU Thunderbirds College Prep history. Hiram College Head Coach Jeffrey Curto noticed Randell early this season, citing his performance over the past two years as a testament to his readiness for the NCAA level.
Randell shared his excitement:
“I am very excited to attend Hiram College and be part of their new program. I can't thank Coach Curto enough for giving me this opportunity. I’d also like to thank my family and the entire SISU Thunderbirds organization for making this possible.”
Head Coach Justin Cohn and General Manager David Dew proudly celebrate this milestone during the team’s inaugural season. Since many recruits choose SISU Thunderbirds College Prep based on its staff’s ability to promote and place players at high levels, this accomplishment is a strong endorsement of the program’s credibility.
Coach Cohn spoke highly of Randell’s commitment:
“Connor has been a key leader for our organization, showing up every day with a positive attitude. He is an unbelievable person, and I am thrilled to have him represent our program. Connor has faced extreme adversity but consistently puts in the work and seeks to improve. I am so proud of him and excited to see his career continue at the NCAA level.”
General Manager David Dew added:
“We are so proud of Connor. He is a natural-born, well-spoken leader that any college hockey program would be lucky to have. Over the past two years, he has elevated himself not only as a hockey player but as a young man. We are grateful to have been part of his journey. Thank you to Coach Curto for working with us on this advancement, and congratulations to the Randell family.”
Congratulations to Connor Randell, the SISU Thunderbirds’ first NCAA athlete, as he embarks on his next chapter with Hiram College!