TROY, N.Y. - The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) men's hockey team has added transfer Mike Gornall to the roster, it has been announced by head coach Dave Smith. The forward comes to the Engineers from the University of North Dakota, where he spent the previous two seasons. Due to Division I regulations, he is ineligible to play this season, but is allowed to practice with the team.

"Mike is a hard-nosed player, who brings a lot of energy to the rink every day," said Smith. "He was a top recruit coming out of juniors and has valuable NCAA Tournament experience." 

"I'm very excited to be a part of the RPI family," added Gornall. "RPI was an easy decision, because the hockey program competes in a tremendous conference and has a history of success in athletics as well as academics. Troy is a beautiful city and I feel that this institution offers the means necessary for players to develop and flourish, both on and off the ice. I can't wait to see what the future holds."

A sophomore out of Irwin, Pa., Gornall appeared in 17 games for the Fighting Hawks last season, netting two goals and and assist for three points. One of his tallies was a game-winner and he was a -2 with four minor penalties for eight minutes. In 10 National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) games, he scored twice with an assist for three points. 

Gornall played in three games at UND in 2015-16, scoring one goal. He was a +1 with one penalty for two minutes. Prior to joining the Fighting Hawks, he was a member of the Topeka Roadrunners of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). A captain during the 2014-15 season, he compiled 49 points on 15 goals and 34 assists in 58 regular season contests.