Drillers Forward Schmidt Makes College Commitment

The Louisiana Drillers of the North American 3 Hockey League are proud to announce that forward Riley Schmidt has committed to play NCAA Division III college hockey for New England College (Henniker, New Hampshire).

Schmidt has spent two seasons in the NA3HL. In 2024-2025 he played for the Gillette Wild. He spent the first part of the 2025-2026 season with the Wild before joining the Louisiana Drillers in February. This season was his most successful statistically. He had 76 points during the regular season, plus an additional 18 points throughout the playoffs and championship tournament. 

Schmidt had 35 goals and 59 assists throughout the entire season and post season. His 47 assists during the regular season landed him ranked #13 among all forwards in the league. 

“We are beyond proud of Riley and his commitment today!” Said Drillers Head Coach Chris Francis. “Riley is a very talented hockey player and I know he will do great things at the next level.  He will be missed in Louisiana as he was a tremendous person to have around the rink and in our community.  Best of luck to Riley and he will always be a part of the Driller family!”

In February of 2026, Schmidt was selected to compete in the Top Prospects Tournament. The tournament consisted of the best uncommitted players in NA3HL and the NAHL. Schmidt represented the NA3HL on team White. He scored two goals and recorded one assist during the tournament. 

His best performance of the 2025-2026 season came during the Fraser Cup Playoffs on Mar. 13 against the Bayou State Rougarou. He had five points consisting of two goals and three assists to aid the Drillers in a 13-0 shutout win. 

Schmidt is one of four players from the Louisiana Drillers to make a college commitment this season.