South Shore Kings forward Eli Heinze is excited to announce his NCAA Division I commitment to Harvard University for the 2026 season.

Heinze, a Santa Barbara native who has been a key part of the Kings’ lineup, has developed into a well-rounded player both on and off the ice during his time with South Shore. His commitment comes after a process that picked up quickly over the past few months.

“Actual conversations only really started recently, maybe a month or two ago,” said Heinze. “First contact with their coaching staff was last year towards the end of my Governor’s season. That was basically just an introduction. The stars kind of aligned around Christmastime with the opportunity, and then my advisor, Jack Donato, as well as Coach Holske did a phenomenal job of talking with Harvard to take a chance on me.”

Throughout the process, Harvard made it clear they were looking at more than just Heinze’s play on the ice.

“I think this is more complicated than just my game on the ice,” Heinze said. “The coaching staff at Harvard really was interested in recruiting a person, not just a player. I’ve kept good grades and test scores my entire life, and any program I have ever been a part of I have treated like a family. And that’s all thanks to my parents and the lessons and values they taught me growing up.”

Heinze also credited the people around him who helped him reach this milestone.

“It was powerful seeing different people that I’ve formed relationships with throughout my life vouch for my character when they spoke with Harvard during this whole process,” he added. “I could not have made it this far in a vacuum and am grateful beyond belief for all those that helped me get here.”

Harvard ultimately stood out to Heinze as the complete package, combining elite academics with top-level hockey.

“It’s the greatest school in the world,” said Heinze. “The Harvard brand almost speaks for itself, but I personally believe there is no box left unchecked by Harvard. The network, professionalism, campus, location, academic rigor, and athletic excellence all add up to make it the best spot for me.”

The people and culture surrounding the university further solidified his decision.

“The fact that makes me know I am going to the right school is because nearly every person that I have met who either went to Harvard, is working at Harvard, or is a current student at Harvard has been a paragon,” Heinze said. “Even my alumni interviewer was a stud. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of a community like that?”

Heinze credits the South Shore Kings for preparing him for the next step in his career and helping him reach the Division I level.

“South Shore is awesome,” said Heinze. “They’ve prepared me for this next jump in my hockey career by being meticulous and truly caring about each player. Everyone in the organization wants to see others succeed around them.

“I’ve been able to go over individual film with Coach Holske after nearly every game. We are on the ice six days a week and have total access to one of the best strength and conditioning programs in the entire state. We live walking distance from the rink. The framework is in place so that every single player on South Shore can thrive.”

Back in California, Heinze played for the Santa Clarita Flyers and high school hockey for the Santa Barbara Royals.

Photo/USPHL

— USPHL Staff

(March 30, 2026)