The Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the North American Hockey League are proud to announce that Cole Burke, a native of Trenton, Michigan, has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Michigan State University. The talented forward is set to continue his hockey journey this fall with the Spartans.
Ice Dogs General Manager Rob Proffitt shares his congratulations:
“Cole has stayed the course and grinded through three years of Ice Dog hockey. He was a tremendous leader of our hockey club and has earned this opportunity with MSU. We are extremely excited for him and his family.”
A third-year veteran of the Ice Dogs, Burke has been a crucial leader for the team. During the 2024-2025 campaign, Burke served as Captain and played in 60 games, registering 16 goals and 22 assists. Burke’s standout season earned him an invitation to the prestigious 2025 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament, where he netted two goals for the Midwest Division team. Cole Burke’s contributions were pivotal to the success the Ice Dogs saw last season.
Dakota Bell, Head Coach of the Fairbanks Ice Dogs, shares his thoughts:
“Congratulations to our Captain, Cole Burke, on his commitment to Michigan State University!
Cole has been invaluable to our organization for the past 3 years and fully deserves this opportunity. With a tireless approach to the game combined with his strong work ethic, MSU is adding a great piece to their locker room. I’d like to thank Cole for his contributions to both the community of Fairbanks and the Fairbanks Ice Dogs organization. As he wore our sweater for 171 hockey games in total and remained loyal to the logo while trusting the process, this is tremendous.
We are excited to see all that Cole achieves in Green & White in the years to come!”
“I am truly honored to have the opportunity to further my hockey and education at Michigan State University,” says Cole Burke. “I want to thank all my coaches, teammates, and family that pushed me to be my best every day and gave me inspiration to chase my dreams. Thank you to the Fairbanks Ice Dogs organization for teaching me tons of individual and social skills and building amazing relationships that will last a lifetime. Lastly, hard work pays off. It may take 1 year or may take 21 years, but eventually all the hard work pays off.”
