Niko Benjamin left his mark on the NCDC and now the Surprise native is looking to do the same in college at NCAA Division III Norwich.

On Feb. 23, Benjamin set the all-time regular season games played record for the NCDC, marking his 185th regular-season game. This broke the previous record of 184 games played by former Rockets Hockey Club and Jersey Hitmen standout Michael DiPietra, now playing at Trine University.

Now, he’s off to ply his trade at Norwich, a military school located in Vermont.

“Throughout the past season, I stayed in touch with Norwich, and when the new school year was about to begin, I was offered the opportunity to commit,” said Benjamin, who played 194 games for the NCDC’s Utica Jr. Comets. “After my hockey career, I knew I wanted to serve in the military, so when I had the opportunity to commit to Norwich with its distinguished history and strong academics, it was an easy decision.

“One thing I am looking to work on is the physical aspect of my game. College hockey is on a different level, and I am looking forward to competing at this high level.”

Benjamin added that his time playing in Utica, N.Y., which included two all-star game selections, rounded out his game to be ready for the college grind.

“The last four years in Utica were without a doubt the most influential part of my career,” Benjamin said. “Coaches Lou Educate, Andy Starczewski, Johnny Jackson, Shawn Lynch, and all the staff in the Comets organization pushed me to become the person I am today. I was able to play every role and be in every situation possible. The amount of information and knowledge passed down is something that I will be forever grateful for.”

Back home in Arizona, Benjamin played for the Jr. Coyotes his entire youth career and said coaches Nick Naumenko, Ray Whitney and Mike DeAngelis were crucial parts of his development as a player.

“I have been playing hockey since I was five,” said Benjamin. “I can still recall those early morning skates at Polar Ice with my father and brother. One of the best things about playing this sport is the camaraderie and the brothers you meet throughout the years.”

And even with the loss of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes, Benjamin said that doesn’t stop the growth of the game in the desert.

“I believe that the Arizona Coyotes left a legacy that will forever be in the hearts of all hockey fans in the Valley,” he said. “While the team may be gone, they were able to reach all parts of Arizona, and it is very clear the impact they had. Especially with the emergence of ASU, hockey will continue to grow in the Valley and will forever have a spot here.”

Moving ahead, Benjamin has realistic goals in mind as he makes the move back out east.

“At the moment, my goals are to pursue a contract in the United States Air Force while earning my degree and playing hockey,” said Benjamin.

Top photo/Utica Jr. Comets; youth photos provided by Niko Benjamin

— Matt Mackinder

(August 31, 2025)