The Lancer men's hockey team and head coach Kevin Hamlin are proud to announce their 2025-26 recruiting class.
Sam Grabner, a standout defenseman from Ottawa, Ontario, brings size, poise, and five years of valuable Junior A experience to the Lancers. Standing at 6'4", Grabner is a reliable presence on the back end. Sam has consistently matched up against top-tier opposition, earning a reputation as a shut-down defenseman with the ability to impact the game in all three zones.
Grabner was a key piece in the Ottawa Jr. Senators' championship-winning season in the CCHL, demonstrating leadership, composure under pressure, and a commitment to team success. He has played the last two seasons in the BCHL as the captain of the Prince George Spruce Kings. His defensive IQ, physical presence, and ability to make smart decisions under pressure make him a perfect fit for the pace and intensity of U Sports hockey.
"Sam is an excellent player and will be a great addition to our quest to win a championship here in Windsor." Coach Hamlin said.
Off the ice, Grabner is also an excellent student, embodying the values of discipline and dedication both in the classroom and on the ice. His strong academic background and character make him an ideal addition to the Lancers community. We're thrilled to welcome Sam to Windsor and look forward to seeing him make an impact on and off the ice in the seasons ahead.
The next recruit joining the Lancer family is Noah Szabo, one of the most highly regarded defensemen in Junior A hockey. A native of St. Thomas, Ontario, Szabo captained the Steinbach Pistons during an outstanding 2023–24 campaign, where he finished second in team scoring and led by example every night. Under his leadership, the Pistons captured the Manitoba Junior Hockey League Championship, with Szabo playing critical minutes in all situations.
Whether it was killing penalties, quarterbacking the power play, or logging major ice time at even strength, Szabo was the heartbeat of his team's blue line. His all-around excellence was recognized league-wide as he was named a MJHL first team all-star.
At 6'1", he combines offensive instincts with strong defensive awareness and leadership qualities that will make an immediate impact at the U SPORTS level. His ability to rise to the moment in high-stakes situations and his commitment to team success make him an ideal addition to the University of Windsor roster.
"We are thrilled to bring in a player of Noah's caliber and character and look forward to what he'll bring to the Lancers—both on and off the ice," Hamlin remarked.
Owen Jones, a high-impact forward from the Canmore Eagles of the AJHL, is also joining the blue and gold for the upcoming season. A dynamic right winger with elite skating ability, a dangerous shot, and high-end offensive instincts, Owen is the kind of player who can change a game in an instant—and bring fans to their feet. He led the Eagles in points last season, showcasing his ability to consistently produce while drawing the attention of opposing defenses night after night.
Known for his deceptive puck skills, creativity, and explosiveness in transition, Jones brings a unique offensive dimension to the Lancers' attack. Whether it's beating defenders one-on-one or finding the back of the net in tight moments, he has all the tools to excel at the U SPORTS level.
The Lancers are excited to add Jones to our forward group and believe he is poised to make an immediate impact. With his skill set and drive, there's no doubt he has a bright future in the blue and gold.
"The attributes that Owen brings to our team don't come around very often. He is a very skillful forward that understands how to compete!" stated Hamlin.
The next recruit for the upcoming hockey season is Ethan Hilbig, a towering, hard-nosed defenseman from the Kindersley Klippers of the SJHL.
Standing at 6'4", Hilbig brings a physical edge and a commanding presence to the blue line. As captain of the Klippers, he led by example both on and off the ice, earning respect for his leadership, work ethic, and character.
Hilbig's game is built on toughness, smart positioning, and team-first play. He takes pride in defending hard, protecting his crease, and making life difficult for opposing forwards. His leadership and maturity will make him an invaluable presence in the Lancers' locker room.
"Ethan will join former teammates Logan Linklater and Tylin Hilbig. We are so fortunate to get someone of Ethan's physicality. He will force teams to be alter when he's on the ice." said Hamlin.
With his combination of size, physicality, and intangibles, Hilbig is a welcome addition to the Lancer program and will play a key role in the defensive core.
The final recruit for the upcoming season that the Lancers are pleased to announce is goaltender Sam Ivanov.
Ivanov, a 6'4" netminder, redshirted last year at York University, now joins the Lancers with fresh focus and high expectations. A graduate of the Soo Greyhounds (OHL), where he served as the starting goaltender, Sam brings elite-level experience and poise to the crease.
Known for his ability to cover the net effectively, Ivanov blends size with impressive athleticism and technical precision, allowing him to make key saves in high-pressure situations. His calm demeanor, combined with his strong fundamentals, make him a goaltender capable of making an immediate impact at the U Sports level.
"We're thrilled to add Sam to our goaltending group and look forward to watching him compete and contribute this season." stated Hamlin.
Welcome to the Lancer family, we look forward to seeing you in the blue & gold this season!
