Hawke Huff joins me to discuss his final USHL season, what it would mean to take home Defenseman of the Year honours and his upcoming commitment to the University of St. Thomas
The transition from one organization to another, especially mid-season, can be a difficult one for many players, but for Hawke Huff, he really started to find his stride following last year’s trade to the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders.
After appearing in 35 games with the Sioux Falls Stampede during the 2024-25 season, Hawke was moved to the RoughRiders, where the defenseman would play in 21 games to close out the regular season, registering two goals and four assists, to finish his first season in the United States Hockey League with two goals and eight assists.
Flash forward to this season, Huff took an even bigger step, recording three goals and 36 assists across 61 games played. The 36 assists were good for the team, and his 39 points placed Huff sixth among all RoughRiders skaters this year.
During an interview on Wednesday, Huff spoke about the adjustments and learning curves he experienced to help allow him for greater success at the junior hockey level.
“I think a big part of it was when I came to Cedar Rapids, my confidence grew, and I started playing a little better. The opportunities I received helped my confidence rise, especially entering my second season,” Huff said. “I knew I could play at this level, and I knew the things I needed to do to have success. I just felt more comfortable out there and was able to make more plays. I wasn’t as hard on myself, and the game seemed to come easier to me.”
To further reinforce the strength of the 19-year-old’s 2025-26 campaign, Huff was named one of the three finalists for the USHL Defenseman of the Year award, along with Youngstown Phantoms defenseman Jack Willson and Tri-City Storm defenseman Bode Laylin. Huff touched on what it meant to him to be nominated for this prestigious award, and what it would mean if he won the prize.
“I think it’s super cool. I couldn’t believe it when I saw that yesterday. Obviously, it would be super cool to win, and just kind of have that to show for all the work I’ve put in,” Huff said. “I have to thank my teammates and everyone involved in the Cedar Rapids organization because it was such a great year. They made it so easy to perform because everyone was playing as a team. To be able to win that award would obviously be amazing, be a super cool achievement, and obviously a great way to end my junior career.”
Next season, Huff will be taking the next step in his hockey career by joining the University of St. Thomas’ men’s hockey team. Huff discussed the process leading up to his commitment and what he’s looking forward to when he makes the leap to the NCAA level.
“I was very interested in them after they showed interest in me. I spoke with their coaches a bunch, and my coach [Mark Carlson] thought it would be a very good spot for me,” Huff said. “What they have going on there is just amazing. They have moved from Division three to Division one and are about to enter the NCHC. I feel like the university and hockey is just trending uphill, and that was huge for me,” Huff said. “I’m excited to get there, learn, grow and be a college hockey player. I think the staff is really going to help me, and I’m ready to get to work and be a Tommie.”
When asked about his fondest memory from his junior hockey days, the defenseman spoke about the people who have made his ride so memorable.
“All the bonds I created with my teammates and coaches. I’ve made so many connections and been able to meet so many different people. I am going to come out of playing in this league with a bunch of new friendships and can stay in touch with all those guys,” Huff said. “Now I can always reach out to these guys if something happens to say congrats, so the relationships that have been created are very memorable.”
Huff is ready for what his collegiate career is going to bring, but he also has his aspirations and focus set on achieving the ultimate goal he has set for himself in his hockey path.
“I just want to learn like I did in the USHL, and be a great defenseman in college. A goal of mine is to play pro hockey, so I really want to develop in college and become the best player I can be,” Huff said.