The NA3HL’s Austin Ice Bats have announced that defenseman Dylan Jimenez has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for Arcadia University.

Jimenez, a native of Castle Rock, has dominated on the blue line for the Ice Bats and Helena Bighorns over the past two seasons. The 6-foot-6 defenseman appeared in 26 games for Helena and 25 games for Austin.    

The best statistical season for the towering defenseman came in 2025-26 when he recorded 13 points in 25 games with the Ice Bats. Those 13 points include four goals and nine assists. 

“Dylan was a huge addition that came to us from the NAHL this season,” said Austin head coach Joshua Malin. “His attention to detail and development through his roughly year and a half with the Austin Ice Bats will lead to his success in the classroom, on the ice and everyday life.”

The best performance of the 2025-26 season from Jimenez came on Oct. 3 against the El Paso Rhinos when he recorded two special teams assists. The first assist came short-handed in the second period. Then in the third, Jimenez recorded a power-play assist on the goal that gave his team a 4-2 lead. 

Jimenez is the only player from the Ice Bats to make a college commitment this season.

Back in Colorado, Jimenez skated for the Littleton Hawks, Colorado Rampage and Colorado Springs Tigers.

Photo/NAHL

— NA3HL Staff

(May 16, 2026)