Gavin McKenna Officially Joins Penn State, Leaving WHL Behind

Gavin McKenna's anticipated transition to the NCAA has become a reality as he has officially declared his commitment to attend Penn State University, stepping away from his tenure in the Western Hockey League (WHL). The announcement, made during an appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter, confirmed McKenna's decision, which he described as incredibly challenging due to the great opportunities available to him. After careful consideration with his family and advisors, he believes that Penn State presents the best environment for his development next season.

The 17-year-old forward, hailing from Whitehorse, expressed excitement about the prospect of competing against "older, heavier, stronger guys" in college, seeing it as critical preparation for his future in the NHL. Last season, while playing for the Medicine Hat Tigers, McKenna delivered an impressive performance, netting 41 goals and providing 88 assists across 56 regular-season games. He played a pivotal role in helping the Tigers secure their first WHL championship since 2007 and reach the Memorial Cup final.

With McKenna's move, he joins an emerging trend where top-tier talents from the WHL, OHL, and QMJHL choose the NCAA over junior hockey, particularly following recent changes that allowed CHL players to compete at U.S. colleges. His departure is indicative of a broader shift in junior hockey, with several other high-profile players like Keaton Verhoeff and Cayden Lindstrom also opting to play in American colleges instead of continuing in the CHL.

In addition to McKenna, athletes like Calgary Flames prospect Luke Misa and defenceman Jackson Smith have announced their commitments to Penn State. The Nittany Lions, who finished last season with a 22-14-4 record, reached the Frozen Four semi-final and are hopeful for strong future performances with this influx of talent. As NCAA rules allowing direct payments to college athletes and the ability to profit from their name, image, and likeness have changed the landscape, McKenna's departure from the WHL—alongside the modest support offered by the CHL—highlights the shifting dynamics in junior hockey.