Hughes, an 05’ out of Rutland, VT, played for HRI for two seasons in the EHL. This past season saw him more than double his output from his rookie campaign. In total, Hughes tallied 11 goals and four assists in 88 games.

“As a two year player, I could not be more proud of Evan’s growth and his commitment to Roger Williams University,” HRI Head Coach James Mello said. “He has without a doubt been a team player who cared greatly about his teammates and our organization. There was never a game or practice over those two years that I did not feel Evan gave everything he had to help our team win.”

Hughes is amongst a double digit number of EHL players joining the Hawks for their inaugural season at the NCAA Division Three level. Head Coach Chris Hall will be leading the team. 

“I am beyond excited to announce my commitment to Roger Williams University and being part of the foundation of their new program, as I have always prided myself on my dedication to my team,” Hughes said. “I cannot thank everyone enough at HC Rhode Island for what they have done for me, both as a player and as a person. I would also like to thank my family, teammates and coaches over my staff for helping me get to this point. I am very excited for the next four years - go Hawks!”

“We always talk about the person here, the growth, the caring, the things away from the game that matter more than wins and losses,” said HRI General Manager Toby O’Brien. “Evan epitomizes that feeling. I still can see the heavy tears in his eyes at the end of year one in our exit meetings. He gave all of himself to our organization and in turn, he took a lot of positives out for his future as well. A new program like RWU wants foundation builders, who care more than others. With Evan they got a first line foundation builder who will care about that program for years after graduation."

To view the full 2024-25 NCAA commitment list, click here.