Cypress Classen has committed to the University of Manitoba Bisons for the 2025/26 season. (Battlefords AAA Sharks/Facebook)

By Austin Mattes

Becoming a Bison

Sharks’ Classen commits to the University of Manitoba

Jun 3, 2025 | 4:06 PM

Battlefords AAA Sharks netminder Cypress Classen has officially committed to the University of Manitoba Bisons for the 2025/26 season, capping off a great year filled with accolades and success.

Classen had a stellar year between the pipes for the Sharks, helping them to a league best 23-3-2-2 (W-L-OTW-OTL) regular season record and a trip to the Saskatchewan Female U18 AAA Hockey League finals. In 18 games played, she posted an impressive 15-3 record, with three shutouts, a 1.49 goals against average, and a .946 save percentage.

Her outstanding season also earned her the league award for top goaltender and a selection to the First All-Star Team.

But for Classen, the path to a commitment was anything but straightforward.

“At the start of the year I had lots of different interests, but they weren’t what I was looking for. It was kind of a roller coaster because some other schools didn’t work out too,” Classen said.

Successful Weekend

Battlefords United FC continues to impress in Saskatoon

20m ago

wildfires

SPSA says air tankers grounded due to federal regulation compliance

48m ago

no entry

SPSA warns public after attempted trespassing at La Ronge operations base

2h ago

The turning point came though, when the University of Manitoba brought in a new head coach who reached out to Classen with strong interest.

“She got in contact with me, and she was so excited to learn that I was still available, then we talked, and I really liked her, she really liked me, and things went like that and now I’m committed,” Classen explained.

“The biggest thing for me was just the feeling of someone wanting you and needing you there and having someone who actually believes in you,” she added.

That belief has been a constant driver for Classen throughout her career. Her work ethic and mindset is what helped her reach the top of her game this season.

“I have always wanted to be better. That was my mindset, just always trying to be better. I was never going to give up because I always believed that everything happens for a reason and something else will work out,” Classen said.

Looking back at the Sharks season, Classen cherished the memories she’s made with her teammates in the Battlefords.

“Any time at practice there’s never a dull moment with the girls, no matter what was happening, you’re always cheering each other on. Just getting to know everyone was the best,” she said.

She was also quick to credit the support system that helped her reach this next chapter.

“I probably could never get where I am without my coach Nolan and my goalie coach Sheldon, or any of the coaching staff, really. They played a huge role in my development and everything,” Classen said.

Now, with a university commitment in hand, apart from playing hockey, Classen plans to focus her academics towards becoming a veterinarian.

—

Austin.mattes@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @AustinMattes