Maxwell Koch '26 Recruiting Profile

My name is Max Koch,  I am from Lindstrom, MN.  I am 15 years old, 6'2" 160lbs and I currently play for the Chisago Lakes Wildcats in the MSHSL.    I play Defense and shoot Left.

I have been described by many coaches as smooth skating defenseman with deceptive speed, and known for my passing and hockey IQ.  I am able to use my size and strength to win battles in the corners and in front of the net. I am also known for my ability to protect the puck, decision making and vision. 

As a defenseman I play from our net out, I rush the puck when the opportunity is there, but have always been a pass first player.  I create opportunities for  myself and my teammates by using my size, skill, and vision.   I play on both the Power Play and and PK. 

I led the Mississippi 8 conference in points for a defenseman this season (2023-2024) as a sophomore.

Along with playing hockey, I play varsity golf (2 handicap).  I was also a AAA baseball player (1st base and leadoff hitter) and running back on our football team until last year when I had to narrow my focus as to what sports to play in HS and beyond.

I am a B student at Chisago Lake High School, and I will be graduating in 2026.

I am excited to work hard hard and continue to improve my game both physically and mentally to achieve my dream of playing DI hockey!

I am from a HUGE family, there are over 150 of us counting my aunts, uncles, and cousins! Because of my family I feel I'm very humble and grounded.  It is kind of cool that there is always someone around to both knock you down and pick you up!  I come from a VERY athletic family with several people that have played collage sports, even a few NCAA Champions!  3 of my sister's (Soccer DIII, Diving DIII, Nordic skiing DI) my brother swimming and Diving DIII played collage sports.

 Below is what my HS coach wrote about me.

Player Summary: Max Koch is a modern day defenseman with the ability to impact the game in all three zones. He has a smooth skating stride and he is able to transition effortlessly with loose hips. He is responsible in the defensive zone and makes a good first pass to support breakouts. Max rarely gets beat in one-on-one situations and he always has his shoulders and head up ice. Max has a defensive mindset but has offensive ability to be a threat on the rush. Max is one of the few defenseman I have coached who can create offense on his own. When handling the puck, Max produces lateral cuts to beat defenders. He has great dexterity and he baits defenders with subtle head and shoulder movements. When he enters the zone, he is aware of his teammates and always takes what the opposing team gives him. 

It is no surprise that Max is looking to extend his playing career. He is one of the top 08 defenseman in Minnesota and was invited to play in the prestigious Upper Midwest Elite League. Standing at 6 '2 with room to grow, Max’s upside is evident. Combine that with his defensive mindset, skating ability, and puck skills, Max has the potential to play at the Division I level. For further information on Max, please contact me at 651-324-8031, or via email at [email protected]

Character Summary: Max Koch has a mature approach to the game. He is calm and poised in all situations. He doesn’t panic with the puck and he is able to rebound after a bad shift. Max has a calming effect to his game and he is great to have in the locker room. Max has participated in various community service events and he is always willing to support the team away from the rink. Max is easy to coach and he puts the team before himself. Max always shows up to the rink with a smile on his face and he is fun to be around. He is one of the leaders on our team in blocked shots and he is selfless on and off the ice. Max will positively contribute to any team at the next level.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me as a player and person.  I look forward to hearing. more about your program.

Max Koch