Forney tenders with Lone Star Brahmas

November 4, 2025

18U defenseman Austin Forney has signed a tender with the Lone Star Brahmas (NAHL) for the 2026-27 season. 

A well-rounded defenseman with strong skills and instincts, Forney serves as captain of the 18U team this season. Leading the group to an impressive 18-6-0 start, he has recorded 6 goals, 13 assists, and 21 points through 24 games. A nine-year veteran of the program, the Dublin native played a key role in the 18U team’s historic 2024–25 campaign, which included capturing the MidAm District Championship and advancing to the semifinals of the National Tournament.

“We are very happy for Austin. He’s a great example — like many of his teammates last year — that there is real value in patience,” said 18U head coach Nate Handrahan. “He put in the work this summer, continued to develop, and has performed at an elite level to start the year. That effort was recognized by one of the perennial powers in the NAHL, and we’re excited to see him take this opportunity and run with it.”

Celebrating its 51st season in 2025-26, the NAHL, the only USA Hockey-sanctioned Tier II Junior league boasting 34 teams teams in 19 states from across North America. The NAHL is part of the USA Hockey National Junior Development Model, which includes the USHL and the US National Team Development Program. The NAHL works closely with NCAA College Hockey, the NHL, the USHL, and USA Hockey's National Development Program in order best serve as an imperative piece in the development system for collegiate and professional hockey.