(Image Credit: Vicki Brown - MyLight Photography)
Spruce Kings

Spruce Kings forward Ryan Wachtel commits to NCAA Division I Army-West Point

Jul 31, 2026 | 2:07 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — The Prince George Spruce Kings will be sending another player to the NCAA Division I ranks, with forward Ryan Wachtel committing to Army-West Point for the 2027-28 hockey season.

The club announced the commitment Friday, marking a significant milestone for the 20-year-old forward, who has spent the past two seasons developing in Prince George.

Wachtel has appeared in 102 regular-season games with the Spruce Kings, recording 28 goals and 29 assists. His biggest jump came last season when he more than tripled his goal production, scoring 23 times compared to just five goals during the 2024-25 campaign.

The forward has also contributed in the postseason, collecting four goals and 10 assists in 25 career playoff games.

Wachtel is expected to be a key veteran presence for the Spruce Kings this season. He will join Mason Loewen and Ryder Green as the club’s only third-year players in 2026-27.

In a statement, Wachtel said he is grateful for the opportunity to continue both his hockey career and education at one of the top military academies in the United States.

“I’m honored to announce my commitment to play Division I hockey and further my education at Army-West Point in 2027-28,” said Wachtel. “I would like to thank the Spruce Kings coaching and support staff who have helped develop me into the person and player I am today. I am extremely grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Spruce Kings Head Coach Brad Tesink praised Wachtel’s dedication and development during his time with the organization.

“We as a staff are thrilled for Ryan,” Tesink said. “He has battled hard for his success both on and off the ice over the last two seasons here in Prince George and he will be an important part of our core this season before heading to Army next year.”

The announcement comes as the Spruce Kings prepare for the upcoming BCHL season. Season tickets are currently on sale, while the organization’s summer hockey camps begin August 4 and run through August 20. The camps feature 19 different programs, with more than 300 participants already registered.