The first two members of the Saskatoon Blades to declare their intentions to play N-C-A-A hockey under the new rules allowing Major Junior players to continue their careers in U-S College ranks are captain and defenceman Ben Saunderson (pictured) along with centre and team leading scorer Ben Riche.

Both have committed to Quinnipiac University – Saunderson, who completes his W-H-L eligibility at the end of this season, will suit up for the Bobcats next year while Riche is slated to complete his final season of W-H-L eligibility in 2025-26 before joining the Bobcats for the 2026-27 campaign.