Rochester, MI- Oakland ACHA DI Hockey general manager Corey Hagood is pleased to announce that defenseman Nathan Conklin Jr. has committed to Oakland. Conklin Jr. comes to Oakland from the Peoria Mustangs (NA3HL)

“I’m very excited for upcoming year and what we bring in for the team, I think we will bring grit, intensity, and determination in the upcoming year.” Conklin Jr. Stated about his commitment.

“Nathan brings poise and toughness to our back end, we are very very young so adding a 20-year-old was a huge need for us.” Oakland head coach Nick Mammel stated. “We are thrilled to have him back. He comes from one of the best coached High School programs in the state with Steve Witt and Midland High. Then went on to have another highly coached and ran program with Peoria.”

The welcoming feeling from the Oakland coaching staff helped with the decision to join the program. “The coaching staff was very welcoming when I spoke with them, and Oakland has a great reputation as a university education wise.”

“I think the coaching staff is determined to build a great program that can win championships while also developing their players.”

Conklin Jr. describes him as a defenseman who can move the puck, and he brings a physical element to the lineup. “I’m a two-way puck moving defenseman that moves the puck up ice and can skate it, when need be.” He said. “I like to be physical and flashy at the same time kind of like Roman Josi.”

Conklin Jr. will be studying business at Oakland, and then plans to become a settlement attorney at a law school.

2026 Oakland ACHA DI Hockey Recruiting Class

NamePositionPrevious Team/League
Mike BishopForwardMaine Nordiques/18U AAA
Nathan Conklin Jr.DefensemanPeoria Mustangs / NA3HL
Jason BertrandDefensemanDelta College Prep /USHS-Prep

Graphic By OU Hockey Alum Joseph Guenther