Austin Bruins defenseman Lane Krenzen  announced his commitment to play Division I hockey Thursday at the University of Denver.

Krenzen has played juniors for three years and he is a captain for the Bruins, who will host series-leading Aberdeen in game three of the NAHL Central Division semifinals at 7:25 p.m. Friday.

Aberdeen leads the best-of-five series 2-0.

“Denver has a tradition of excellence that I look forward to being a part of. The city, campus, facilities, and staff have everything to help players reach their potential,” Krenzen said in a press release. “I look forward to going there and helping contribute to an already outstanding team culture.”

Krenzen, a native of Twig, Minnesota, played his entire career in Austin with the Bruins playing in more than 170 games with 57 total points. Krenzen played his high school hockey at Duluth Marshall.

“Lane is a two-year captain with a ton of heart and an extremely high (competitive) level,” said Bruins head coach Steve Howard. “He does things the right way, and the staff at the University of Denver are going to love that about him. They are getting a great player and more importantly, a first-class human being.”

Krenzen has enjoyed his time with the Bruins.

“Austin has been my home for three years and has been more than ideal for me. Through the ups and downs of a season, it really helps to know that you have an entire fan base pulling for you,” Krenzen said. “The Bruins initially gave me the opportunity to make my mark in junior hockey. Without this organization, the great coaches and people behind the scenes, I wouldn’t have been able to get to this point.”

Former Bruin Josh Wilkins also made a big move as he signed a two-year, entry-level contract with the Nashville Predators of the NHL

Wilkins, who is 21 years old, helped lead Providence to the Frozen Four this past season as he finished with 20 goals and 26 assists in 40 games.