MINOT, N.D. – The Minot State men's hockey team continues to improve for the future with the addition of the Beavers' second new recruit this offseason.

Minot State head coach Wyatt Waselenchuk is pleased to introduce Ryley Cyca, younger brother of current Beavers' forward Logan Cyca, who will join the team as a freshman on the ice and in the classroom in the fall of 2026.

"We have had our eye on Ryley for a while now, obviously, with the family connection," Coach Waselenchuk said. "He's been a player that's persevered many obstacles throughout his junior hockey career, however, his constant positivity, willingness to be a great teammate, and the competitive drive that he has within were all no-brainers for us as a staff in terms of bringing him in."

"I'm super excited and honored to commit to Minot State University," said Cyca, a 5-foot-9, 165-pound defenseman from Sherwood Park, Alberta. "I'm thrilled to further my education and take the next step in my hockey career with such a successful hockey program. I'd like to thank my family for supporting me throughout my junior career and helping me get to the next level.

"Getting the opportunity to play alongside my brother, Logan, has been a dream of ours since we were young," Ryley added.

"I'd also like to thank my coaches from Waywayseecappo for helping me grow as a player and person over the past three seasons. Especially my head coach, Landyn Cochrane, a former Beaver and National Champion at Minot State."

Cyca played in 105 games for the Waywayseecappo Wolverines of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League over the last three seasons, which includes 7 playoff games. During that time, he scored 7 goals and assisted on 52 others. He also was an assistant captain during the 2024-25 season.

Along with his time in Waywayseecappo, Cyca also played for the Weyburn Red Wings of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League during the 2023-24 season, and played 25 games with the Portage Terriers of the MJHL before joining Waywayseecappo during the 2023-24 season.

This past winter, he also played in 10 games with the Cowichan Valley Capitals of the British Columbia Hockey League before rejoining the Wolverines.

"The Wolverines organization is thrilled for Ryley to be joining the Minot State Beavers in the fall of 2026," Waywayseecappo's coach and former Beaver, Cochrane, said. "Ryley has been the ultimate teammate during his time with our organization. Beaver's fans can expect Ryley to wear his heart on his sleeve every night, be a steady rock on the backend, and play in all situations."

Minot State's Waselenchuk added: "Fans can expect a ton of energy and excitement with his play. We see many similarities between Ryley and graduating defenseman Logan Rands, who now departs our program after an incredible four years."