Alexandria, MN (Aug. 4, 2023) 

For more information, contact: Johnny Van Atta, Director of Hockey Operations (615) 830-1113, [email protected] 

Northstar Knights incoming 18U Prep forward, Tommy Prendergast, has committed to NCAA I Western Michigan. “I am honored and excited to announce my commitment to play division 1 hockey at the University of Western Michigan”, Prendergast said in a social media post last night. “They have an amazing hockey program and staff who are committed to the players and making sure you’re the best player you can be as well as a person. I would like to thank all my teammates, coaches, and family who have helped me along my journey so far. I can’t wait to get started!” 

Prendergast joins the Knights following 3 years with the Colorado Thunderbirds Program where he played from 2020-2023. Following the 2022 season, Prendergast was drafted 63rd overall by the Green Bay Gamblers in Phase 1 of the 2022 USHL. The Denver, CO native also competed with USA Hockey at their 2021, 2022 and 2023 summer player development camps. 

Last season, Prendergast led his 16U Thunderbirds team in points, scoring 67 points (29G, 38A) in 55 games played. His consistent production earned him a call up with the Green Bay Gamblers where he suited up for 4 games and registered 1 assist against the USNTDP on january 14th. 

Joey Padmanabhan, an EP Rinkside scout, had high praise for Prendergast. “He uses the lateral crossover exceptionally well to challenge defencemen head-on and then burn them in the other direction”, Padmanabhan said in his report. “There were a few occasions where he was able to turn the corner on opponents through this technique. Prendergast’s speed makes him an impact player in transition as well, he works to pick up opposing forwards on the rush. His speed is his biggest asset, but there’s a lot to like here.” 

With Prendergast signing with the Knights, they will now feature one of the top forward groups in 18U AAA hockey. “I am excited for Tommy to know where he is going to play college hockey and to help give him something that we can all work together to help prepare him for one day.” 18U Prep Head Coach, Rylan Galiardi said. “He is committing to a great coaching staff in a very good league in the NCHC. We are looking forward to a great season coaching Tommy and the rest of the players coming to Northstar this year.”