ELMIRA, N.Y. – Elmira Aviators defensemen Brenden Bedorf and Tyler Palin have made commitments to NCAA Division III schools. Bedorf will play college hockey at Amherst College, while Palin will take his talents to Keene State College.
Bedorf has skated in 87 of the 90 total Aviator games since the club’s inception, including all 31 this season. He was named team captain at the start of this campaign.
The Harrisburg, Pa., native has always led by example as the Elmira iron man. Bedorf has not missed a contest since Nov. 9, 2024, playing in 71 consecutive games.
He has compiled 25 career points, including 1 goal and 8 assists, so far this season. Bedorf has been a rock for Elmira as an all-situations defenseman.
He consistently skates against opponents’ top forwards and has seen increased power-play time this season. The 2005-born defenseman regularly paces the team in minutes.
Aviator head coach Leeor Shtrom believes Amherst is getting a difference maker in Bedorf.
“We are extremely happy for Brenden and his family,” Shtrom said. “Amherst is getting a great defenseman who can play in every situation. He’s been a true leader both on and off the ice and admired by the community in Elmira.”
Bedorf will join Amherst after finishing this season with the Aviators.
The Mammoths compete in the NESCAC Conference alongside schools such as Hamilton College and Williams College. Former Aviators Clarence Beltz and Curtiss Sturgeon are currently playing for Hamilton in the NESAC.
Fellow Elmira defenseman Tyler Palin has committed to Keene State of the LEC Conference.
Palin joined the Aviators this season and has skated in 14 games thusfar. The Florida native is a solid puck-moving defenseman who has answered the bell each time his name has been called.
Coach Shtrom thinks the Owls will appreciate Palin’s determination and commitment to the game of hockey.
“Tyler is a good puck-moving defenseman who plays with an edge,” Shtrom said. “We are proud of Tyler, and extremely happy for him and his family. Keene State will benefit from Tyler’s passion and overall game.”
Palin will head to Keene State after finishing this season in Elmira.
The entire Elmira Aviators organization congratulates Brenden and Tyler on their commitments and looks forward to seeing what they achieve in the future.
Mac Young is the play-by-play voice of the Elmira Aviators. To contact him, email [email protected].