APPLETON, Wis. — Lawrence University hockey standout Renato Engler is opening a new chapter in his playing career.
Engler, who wrapped up a stellar career with the Vikings last month, has signed a contract to play professional hockey in his native Switzerland. A native of Davos, Switzerland, Engler has signed to play with HC Thurgau in the National League B.
“Being able to compete in the (Northern Collegiate Hockey Association) was an invaluable experience for me,” Engler said. “I got to play hockey at a very fast and physical level. Every game made me a better player and definitely prepared me for the next step. Signing to play pro would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the Lawrence University hockey program.”
Lawrence coach Mike Szkodzinski said Engler’s work ethic and ability proved to be a combination that HC Thurgau, located in the city of Weinfelden, desired.
“Renato did everything he could to make our team and himself better. He is a workhorse and brings as much energy and passion as any player we have coached over the past 10 years. His skating ability will allow him to be very successful at the next level,” Szkodzinski said.
“Without a doubt, Renato is one of the best all-around players to put on the Viking jersey. We are very proud of him signing his first pro contract. He deserves the opportunity, and we are confident he will be a key member of HC Thurgau.”
Engler led the Vikings with 25 points this past season on the strength of a team-high 16 assists to go along with nine goals. Engler played in 100 games for Lawrence and finished with 21 goals for 39 assists and 60 points. He ranks in the school’s career top 20 in goals, assists and points.
“Playing college hockey at Lawrence has been the best decision in my career so far,” Engler said. “Practice was designed in a way that individual skill development and team tactics both went hand-in-hand.”
Engler is the 11th Lawrence player in the past eight years to play professionally after his career with the Vikings. Defenseman Josh Peterson was the first in 2008, and forward Tom Lee, who played for the Danville Dashers of the Federal Hockey League, was the last in 2015.
The Vikings finished third in the NCHA’s North Division this season and have qualified for the conference playoffs in every season of Szkodzinski’s 10-year tenure as head coach.