The 2000-born native of Maple Grove, MN came to the Rangers for his final year of junior hockey, and in 30 Eastern Hockey League (EHL) games to date, Latvala has notched a pair of goals to go along with 10 assists.

"We are happy for Nick," said Rangers head coach and general manager Rich DeCaprio. "He’s going to a great school and has a ton of upside as a big, tall defenseman.  He will be an impact player at Bethel and we look forward to watching him in college!"

Latvala is the 6th player in league history to choose the Bethel hockey program, and the 1st player in Rangers' team history. The Royals play out of the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) that boasts some of the top teams in all of NCAA Division III hockey.

"I have loved my time here with BJR this season," said Latvala. "Coach DeCaprio and Coach Aucoin are very good at what they do and that shows year in and year out."

The EHL All-Star defenseman will look to continue playing big minutes for his team down the final stretch and into the postseason, as the Rangers make a run towards reaching the EHL Frozen Finals.

Learn more about the Rangers on the team's official website, and check out the full 2020-21 NCAA commitment list.