PLAYER SNAPSHOT

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Name: Chase Hiltner
Hometown: Saint Cloud, MN
Date of Birth: March 12, 2008
Born: Saint Cloud, MN
Citizenship: American 🇺🇸
Position: Defense (D)
Shoots: Right
Height / Weight: 5'11" / 177 lbs
Current Team: Sauk Rapids Rice High School
League: MSHSL
Graduation Year: 2026
NCAA Eligibility: Registration in progress
Advisor: AJ Bucchino

BIO

Chase is a fast skater with a strong work ethic and excellent vision on the ice. Known for his powerful shot, great edges, and high hockey sense, he consistently makes smart plays that elevate his team. With great determination, Chase is a dynamic and versatile player in all areas of the game, while also being a leader and a positive influence off the ice. His hyper-competitive nature and relentless drive have helped him develop from a frustrated young player into a mature leader who channels his passion into continuous improvement.
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NOTABLE:
  • Started playing hockey at age 4 in small-town Sauk Rapids, MN
  • The rink was his favorite place to be growing up
  • Demonstrates exceptional mental toughness developed through overcoming adversity
  • Strong faith-based foundation driving his determination

MY STORY

1. WHERE I STARTED

"My hockey journey started when I was 4 years old. I started in a small town playing in Sauk Rapids, MN. Growing up, being at the rink is the only place I wanted to be!"

2. CHALLENGES I'VE FACED

"Throughout my career, I have faced multiple challenges and faced tons of adversity. Some injuries have made me go through adversity but in the end I always wanted it more and more the next day. Without being on the ice I didn't feel complete. Facing all this adversity helped me gain mental toughness and I feel that I can overcome a lot of things."

3. WHAT DRIVES ME

"The things that drive and motivate me the most are always wanting to be the best. I am always working hard towards my end goals and I envision what I want out of my career."

4. WHERE I'M HEADED

"My short term goals for hockey is to focus on one game at a time and one shift at a time trying to do my best at all times. I would like to go play juniors for a great program. Long term goal is to play in the NHL and pursue my dreams."

5. GOOD TO KNOW

"I am one of the hardest-working players you'll meet. I push myself daily, with determination and faith that fuel my growth and help me get closer to the next level. I'm willing to put in the work, no matter what it takes. Along the way, I'm excited to connect with coaches, teammates, and others who share the same passion for the game."

STATS

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RECRUITMENT GOALS & PREFERENCES

Open to: NAHL
Willing to relocate: Yes
Advisor: AJ Bucchino

AWARDS

Awards to be added
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ACADEMICS

School: Sauk Rapids Rice High School
GPA: 3.17
SAT / ACT: To be scheduled
Honors: N/A
Graduation Year: 2026
Transcript: Available upon request

SCOUTING REPORT

A dynamic defenseman who combines speed, vision, and a powerful shot with exceptional competitive drive. Shows strong hockey sense and the ability to make smart plays that elevate team performance. Demonstrates leadership qualities and continuous improvement mindset.
Strengths: Skating Speed, Shot Power, Hockey Sense, Competitiveness, Work Ethic, Leadership
Growth Areas: Continued maturity development, consistency at higher levels

TESTIMONIALS

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"I have been fortunate enough to have watched Chase's growth over his time in youth hockey, and this season will mark my third year coaching him directly. He has grown immensely as a hockey player, leader and young man. He is hyper competitive, hard working and loves the game of hockey. Chase hates losing. He competes at a high level and doesn't give up. He shows his tenacity in drills, practice, and off ice training by pushing his limits and remaining determined to his goals. In his earlier years this came out as frustration and anger, but as he has matured we've seen it turn to drive and a determination to be his best. My favorite aspect of Chase's development is his work ethic. He is always trying to improve some aspect of his game, whether that's on or off the ice. He trains hard and wants to reach his potential. He also demonstrates this through being one of the first to raise his hand when something is needed. In turn this has helped him develop his leadership skills in pushing his teammates to get on his level. Finally, Chase has a strong passion for hockey. He treats the game with respect and integrity, and wants to play it the right way. He's focused and dedicated to not only his craft, but his team, teammates, and our culture at Sauk Rapids-Rice. He wants to achieve great things, and isn't afraid of doing what he needs to accomplish his dreams. Chase has a bright future, and we look forward to watching those dreams become a reality."
— Brady DeGagne, Boys Head Hockey Coach, Sauk Rapids-Rice STORM
"Chase represents the perfect example of how adversity can forge character and drive. His journey from a frustrated young player to a mature leader shows incredible personal growth. His combination of physical tools—speed, shot, and hockey sense—with his relentless work ethic makes him a very intriguing prospect. What really stands out is his competitive fire and refusal to give up. Chase has the tools and mindset to continue developing into a high-level player."
— AJ Bucchino, Advisor
 

CONTACT

Preferred method of contact:
Advisor Contact:
 
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AJ Bucchino

AJ Bucchino

A.J. Bucchino is a former NAHL owner, president, GM, and head coach.  He is a high-performance development and skills coach, and an advisor guiding players and their families through key career decisions on the path to long-term success.

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