Ben Geiger, a defenseman who had 61 points in 30 games as a Northfield sophomore last season, announced Wednesday on Instagram that he has committed to play for the Gophers men’s hockey team.

“I am extremely excited and honored to announce my commitment to play Division 1 hockey at the University of Minnesota,” Geiger posted. “I would like to thank my family, friends, coaches, and advisors that have helped me along the way. #Gogophs"

Geiger, 16, had 22 goals and 39 assists for Northfield in 2024-25 and will play the upcoming season with the U.S. National Team Development Program’s Under-17 squad in Plymouth, Mich. The 6-3, 165-pounder is considered a raw prospect brimming with potential as his game and body develop. He likely would join the Gophers during the 2028-29 season after playing junior hockey.

Geiger is the fourth high-profile 16-year-old who has committed to Gophers coach Bob Motzko since Aug. 1, the opening day that age group could make official campus visits and pledge to programs. He joins former Moorhead forward Wyatt Cullen, former Lakeville North center Gunnar Conboy and former Stillwater right winger Luca Jarvis.

Since late July, Motzko also received commitments from Brooks Cullen, 18, who flipped his choice from Michigan State to Minnesota, and former Grand Rapids goalie Carter Casey, 17.