HCRI Forward to join Cougars in the Fall of 2026
WARWICK, RI – Alexander Benkert, a forward for Hockey Club Rhode Island, has committed to Misericordia University for the 2025-2026 season.
An ‘07 out of Bloomfield, NJ, Benkert chose H.C Rhode Island for his first season of junior hockey. Despite a shortened season due to injury, Benkert was an efficient producer for HRI, tallying eight points in eight games. He scored his first goal in his first game.
“I am very happy for Alex to have the opportunity ahead of him at Misericordia to play NCAA hockey,” said James Mello, Head Coach of H.C Rhode Island. “With his injury, his season was cut short and that is the only disappointing part of this. He came in and made an impact right away and was almost a point a game guy through the first couple of months and good for him that people noticed.”
Benkert will join Colin Budd from this year’s class of H.C Rhode Island players, who is also committed to MU.
“Misericordia was an easy decision for me,” Benkert said. “The way they ran the hockey team, as well as how cohesive it is, along with their great academics made it really easy to see myself there. The coaches were very welcoming and all the players and staff were great. It was very easy to see myself there for the next four years. I want to thank my family, teammates, and everyone at HC Rhode Island for helping make this happen.”
“We want to congratulate and wish Alex and his family all the best in the next chapter of his athletic and academic journey,” added General Manager Toby O’Brien. “Although he was only with us through the Fall due to his injury, he made an impact on the ice and that was rewarded. Whether you play ten games or a hundred games, you are part of the HCRI family and we are very happy for Alex and his future.”
To view the 2025-26 EHL NCAA commitments, click here.
