Ben Robertson, a prominent defenseman, recently made a significant decision that could shape his college hockey career. After leading the Cornell Big Red to two ECAC Tournament championships, he chose to transfer to the University of Michigan. This move marks a pivotal moment in his athletic journey.
Transfer Decision Influenced by Academic and Athletic Factors
Robertson faced a tough choice after his team was eliminated from the NCAA tournament last year. He considered staying at Cornell, where he had experienced both individual and team success, or exploring new opportunities for his final two years of eligibility in college hockey. Ultimately, he decided to enter the transfer portal, a rare move for a player from an Ivy League institution.
A significant reason for his transfer was the financial burden of tuition at Cornell. Ivy League schools do not provide full athletic scholarships, leading Robertson to feel it was too much to ask his family to cover another year’s expenses.
- Robertson played for Cornell for two seasons, earning accolades including:
- ECAC All-Rookie Team
- Third All-Star Team
- All-Ivy League Second Team
- He contributed 15 points last season (2 goals, 13 assists).
Joining Michigan’s Resurgent Program
After careful consideration, Robertson selected Michigan, a team eager to rebound after missing the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2019. The Wolverines had also lost key players, including captain Jacob Truscott and top offensive defenseman Ethan Edwards, creating an opportunity for Robertson to make an impact.
Since arriving in Ann Arbor, Robertson has seamlessly integrated into the Michigan system, which is currently the most prolific offense in the nation, averaging 5.2 goals per game. He has already racked up 14 assists in just 16 games this season, showing signs of surpassing his previous year’s total.
Robertson’s Skill Set and Team Contributions
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch, Robertson brings a blend of offensive acumen and defensive stability. His high hockey IQ, combined with his skating ability, makes him a crucial asset to the Wolverines’ up-tempo style of play. Assistant coach Matt Deschamps praised Robertson’s dual-threat capabilities.
| Robertson’s Skills | Description |
|---|---|
| Offensive Play | Creates scoring opportunities and facilitates transitions. |
| Defensive Play | Strong defensive skills, including effective stick work and penalty killing. |
Moving to Michigan has alleviated some of the pressure Robertson felt during his time at Cornell. He noted that he had struggled with expectations and was determined to improve upon his freshman year’s performance. Now, he focuses more on his game and less on the statistics.
Leadership and Mentorship Role
As one of two junior defensemen on a young Michigan roster, Robertson has taken on a leadership role. He values the supportive environment created by upperclassmen in his earlier years and aims to foster a similar culture among the current freshmen.
His presence in the locker room is felt, and when he speaks, teammates listen. Robertson understands the importance of building confidence among his peers, especially in a competitive environment like college hockey.
In summary, Ben Robertson’s transfer to Michigan represents more than just a change of scenery. It embodies his aspiration to enhance his college hockey experience while also contributing meaningfully to a team eager to reclaim its status in the NCAA tournament.
