An '04 from Elgin, Illinois, Hacker has had a strong start to the 2024-25 EHL season, playing in 11 games with a 2.55 GAA and a .901 save percentage.

"I am extremely happy for Ryan," said Bears head coach Jason Kilcoyne. "The main focus he had while we were recruiting him was finding a Division III college that fit him. Our league and the New Jersey Bears were the perfect fit. It worked out for everyone, which is the ultimate goal."

Hacker expressed his gratitude, saying, "I’m honored to announce my commitment to Wilkes University. First, I would like to thank my family, especially my parents, for supporting and pushing me to become the player and person I am today. I also want to thank Coach Kilcoyne and the Bears organization for giving me the opportunity to play and develop this year, along with all my past coaches, advisors, and teammates for helping me along the way. Lastly, I want to thank Coach Hynes and Coach Bennett for giving me the opportunity to become a Colonel and further my academic and athletic career at Wilkes University."

Wilkes University, located in Wilkes-Barre, PA, competes at the NCAA Division III level. After spending the past several seasons in the United Collegiate Hockey Conference (UCHC), the Colonels will return to the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) for the 2024-2025 season. Hacker looks forward to joining Wilkes’ program and contributing to their competitive lineup in the MAC.

Check out the full 2024-25 NCAA commitment list.