Gopher hockey lands major commitment from in-state goalie recruit

Carter Casey is a 17-year-old from Grand Rapids who is coming off a strong USHL playoff run.

Gophers fans at 3M Arena at Mariucci. | Picture via: University of Minnesota

Bob Motzko and the Gophers have landed a major commitment from 17-year-old goalie recruit Carter Casey, a native of Grand Rapids (MN) who is coming off an impressive playoff run in his first taste of USHL action.

I am proud and honored to announce my commitment to further my education and continue playing hockey at the University of Minnesota. I want to thank my family, friends, teachers, coaches, and most importantly my parents for helping me become the person that I am today. #gogophs pic.twitter.com/tb3zLN8Rw1

— Carter Casey (@Caseytendy34) July 28, 2025

Casey played two seasons of high school hockey for the Thunderhawks, recording strong numbers. He then debuted in the USHL this year with the Waterloo Black Hawks in Iowa. Casey had a 2.08 GAA in five regular season games and continued to shine in the playoffs, going 10-3-2 with a 2.53 GAA, .918 save percentage, and two shutouts in 15 games. He helped Waterloo reach the Clark Cup final, where they fell in overtime in the decisive fifth game of the series.

Casey chose the Gophers over Wisconsin, Denver, and North Dakota. Next season, he'll play for the WHL's Medicine Hat Tigers in Alberta, Canada.

This is a significant addition for the Gophers; Casey's USHL playoff run established himself as a big-time goalie recruit. He'll have a chance to be the goalie of the future for Motzko and Minnesota.

Perhaps no prospect has elevated their stock more over the past few months than goaltender Carter Casey!

The Grand Rapids, MN native finished up play in MN HS back in February before playing a HUGE role for the @BlckHawksHockey helping them get to the USHL Clark Cup Finals.… https://t.co/sQVMBpv2A1 pic.twitter.com/Ou8bxvPM5y

— College Puck NXT (@CollegePuckNXT) May 31, 2025

Heading into the 2025-26 season, the Gophers' projected starting goaltender is Nathan Airey. They also added Luca Di Pasquo from Michigan State in the transfer portal to help replace departing starter Liam Souliere.