The Razorback Hockey team is pleased to announce that D-Matthew Butler has committed to Arkansas. Butler, a 5’11” 161lbs. right-shot defenseman, joins the Razorbacks after a standout final junior season with the Louisiana Drillers of the NA3HL.

Butler, who hails from Wylie, TX, joins the Razorbacks after posting 5 goals and 36 assists in 46 games, as well as an impressive +24 rating with the Drillers. Prior to his season with Louisiana, Butler played for the Minnesota Iron Rangers in the SIJHL with fellow Razorback commit Brendan Bomay. Butler played his U18 hockey with the Dallas Penguins U18 program.

Butler, who is one of thirteen children, plans to study computer engineering at the U of A. When talking about his love for hockey, he said, “Hockey’s always been the constant in my life connecting me to people all over the country. Having brothers who play hockey meant a lot of family time was spent at the rink.” Regarding his commitment to the University of Arkansas more specifically, Butler said, “I chose the university because the non-resident tuition award made it very affordable and I have friends and family who are already attending.”

“I first watched Matthew play in Minnesota this year, and he immediately stood out. He’s an extremely mobile defenseman who creates rushes and can also protect the front of his own net,” said Andrew Falls, Associate Head Coach. “He knows how to play all areas and we can’t wait for him to arrive in the fall.”

The University of Arkansas Men’s Hockey team plays in the Southeastern Collegiate Hockey Conference. The 2019-20 season will be the team’s thirteenth season as a member of the ACHA competing in Division III. The team’s schedule can be found here. All home games are played at The Jones Center for Families in Springdale.