The Rochester Americans are injecting some fresh offensive talent into their lineup. Today, the team officially secured forward Liam Valente to a one-year American Hockey League contract for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign. Furthermore, fans won’t have to wait until the fall to see the 22-year-old in action. The newest addition to the roster is jumping right into the mix for the remainder of the current season on a Professional Tryout (PTO).
Hailing from Märsta, Sweden, the undrafted 6-foot, 200-pound winger arrives in Rochester fresh off a highly productive collegiate career. Valente spent four years navigating the NCAA ranks, splitting his tenure between Providence College and Western Michigan University.
Ultimately, he wrapped up his collegiate days with an impressive 88 points across 140 games. His jump to the professional ranks comes shortly after Western Michigan’s strong season concluded in the 2026 NCAA Regional Final with a tough loss to Denver.
What the Winger Brings to the Amerks
Despite the tournament exit, Valente was a driving force behind the Broncos’ success this year. He helped steer the program to a 27-win season and a fifth consecutive NCAA Tournament berth. During his senior campaign, he evolved into a primary offensive weapon. As a result, he finished second in team scoring with 35 points in 39 games.
His greatest asset appears to be his special teams prowess. Valente netted 20 total goals this season, and half of those came on the man advantage. Consequently, he led the entire National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) in power-play markers.
This Liam Valente Rochester Americans partnership brings a proven winning pedigree to the Flower City. Just a year ago, he was instrumental in Western Michigan’s 2025 NCHC championship run. He earned Most Outstanding Player honors at the Fargo Regional after a stellar 33-point season.
Additionally, his success extends beyond North American ice. He previously captured a J20 SM gold medal back in Sweden with Linköping’s junior squad. Off the ice, the forward has proven equally dedicated, earning recognition as an NCHC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete.
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