St. Cloud Norsemen defenseman Leo Gruba has made his NCAA Division I hockey commitment to St. Cloud State University.
Gruba, a standout at Hill-Murray (MN) joined the Norsemen at the completion of his high school season, played in 21 games between the regular season and playoffs, en route to St. Cloud’s appearance in the North American Hockey League’s Robertson Cup.
The Lake Elmo, MN native scored a goal and dished 8 assists for 9 points in his 21 games. The 6’2, 205 lbs. right-shooting defender follows in his father Tony Gruba’s footsteps in deciding to play college hockey in St. Cloud.
“I’m grateful for my time with the Norsemen as they helped me shape my game. I’m beyond excited and honored to be a Husky,” Gruba said.
During his high school season at Hill-Murray, Gruba had 33 points in 31 games on 12 goals and 21 assists.
The Norsemen have 12 NCAA commits on the season ending roster and a 13th was called up by his NCAA team at the semester break (Sam Duerr, Maine). NCAA Division I commitments are: Benz (Union), Gruba (St. Cloud State), Nik Hong (Dartmouth), Brandon Lajoie (Alaska-Anchorage), Blake Mesenburg (Miami), Evan Murr (Minnesota State – Mankato), Ryan O’Neill (St. Thomas), John Opilka (St. Cloud State), Blake Perbix (Northern Michigan), Max Strand (Vermont), Nick Young (Union) — along with Gunnar Johnson who will play Division III at St. Olaf.
The St. Cloud Norsemen are the 2021-22 Central Division Champions and were tied for the league lead in wins with 41 in the regular season. The Norsemen made the franchise’s second appearance in the NAHL Robertson Cup.
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