HCRI All-Star Forward to join Spartans in the Fall of 2026
WARWICK, RI – Austin Haldane, a forward for HC Rhode Island, has committed to Castleton University for the 2026-27 season.
An ‘05 out of Clifton Park, NY, Haldane is a two-year product of the Eastern Hockey League. A two-time All-Star, Haldane has been a top producer for Rhode Island during his tenure. With 33 points in 25 games thus far this season, Haldane has amassed 67 points in 57 total games.
“It is with great pride to announce Austin Haldane’s commitment to Castleton University,” Rhode Island Head Coach James Mello said. “Austin has been a two-year player here at HC Rhode Island and one of the best we’ve had in our four years as a franchise. He overcame what should have been a season ending injury last year to comeback and lead our team in goals in the playoffs, represented the EHL the last two years in the NCAA series, and was elected as a captain of our team for the 2025-26 season. Coach Kyle Richards is getting a first-class player at Castleton, and we could not be more happy for Austin and the entire Haldane family.”
Haldane joins current HCRI teammate Cooper Hall, who will also be joining the Spartans next season.
“I’m honored to be able to continue my academic and athletic career at Castleton University,” said Haldane. “Playing college hockey in Vermont, where I was born, is something I’ve always dreamed of. Huge thank you to Coach Mello, Coach Delgallo, Greg [Pickens], Ian O’Brien, and Toby O’Brien for providing an amazing junior experience and making it feel like home the past two seasons. HCRI has challenged me to become a more well-rounded hockey player, as well as developing leadership skills that will guide me in my future. Thank you to all my youth coaches with a special thanks to Coach MacArthur for helping me thrive on and off the ice in the offseason. I’ve also been blessed with the most supportive billet families that have treated me like a son. Last of all, but never least, I am beyond thankful for my parents, siblings, and all my extended family and friends – none of this would be possible without you.”
The praise for Haldane, and in particular, the mark he has left behind on the HCRI programs was also recognized by Toby O’Brien, the Co-Owner and General Manager of the franchise.
“We have been blessed to recruit good human beings throughout our four seasons in the EHL,” said HCRI General Manager Toby O’Brien. “They have helped us grow from a fledgling franchise three plus years ago into a league and industry leader today. Austin is one of the leaders of that group. He is a program change. He is a warrior. He is a winner. He is a great hockey player. He is a leader. Most importantly, he is a great human. Congrats to Austin and the entire Haldane family. Thank you also for believing in HC Rhode Island. He had many options and he believed in us and the Eastern Hockey League.”
Austin is the first commitment of the season for HC Rhode Island. To view the 2025-26 EHL NCAA commitments, click here.
