Gavin McKenna, a 17-year-old hockey talent from Yukon, has confirmed his commitment to play collegiate hockey with the Penn State Nittany Lions before his likely transition to the NHL. McKenna, who is anticipated to be the top pick in the upcoming NHL draft, decided to leave the Western Hockey League’s Medicine Hat Tigers to pursue his career in the United States college system.
With an impressive track record of 41 goals and 88 assists in 56 regular-season games, McKenna played a significant role in Medicine Hat’s recent WHL championship victory and Memorial Cup final appearance. In recognition of his exceptional skills, he was honored as the third-youngest Canadian Hockey League player of the year, following in the footsteps of hockey stars like Sidney Crosby and John Tavares.
The recent decision by the NCAA to permit Canadian Hockey League players to join U.S. college teams has opened up new opportunities for talents like McKenna. Craig Button, a senior hockey analyst at TSN and former NHL general manager, praised this change, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on players and schools like Penn State. Button highlighted McKenna’s potential to elevate the program’s performance and attract top talent.
McKenna’s parents, Willy and Krystal McKenna, expressed their pride in their son’s choice to join Penn State. They mentioned that Gavin had a strong inclination towards Penn State over Michigan State after visiting both campuses. While acknowledging the emotional challenge of leaving his hometown support system in Medicine Hat, Krystal expressed confidence in Gavin’s ability to thrive at Penn State with the support of the coaching staff and team.
The McKennas believe that Gavin’s decision-making and character will guide him well in this new chapter of his career, demonstrating their trust in his capabilities on and off the ice. They are supportive of his independent choice and optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead for him at Penn State.