Chris Hedden has always had confidence with the puck on his stick. The Michigan native put up 11 points for Air Force during his freshman season, followed by 37 in year two and 26 last winter.

The senior defenseman has continued that production this fall, as Hedden has 16 points (9-7-16) through 18 games. His 16 points are tied for seventh among NCAA blue liners and his nine goals rank second.

Hedden has been named the Atlantic Hockey America Defenseman of the Week four times and the league’s November Defenseman of the Month, as Air Force sits at 9-7-2. Hedden was also named November’s HCA National Co-Defender of the Month, along with Denver’s Eric Pohlkamp (SJS) and Minnesota State’s Evan Murr.

However, his growth goes beyond the stat sheet, as Hedden continues to round out his two-way game.

“I think the biggest thing for me this season has been being consistent on both sides of the puck,” Hedden told FloHockey. “I’ve always kinda had that offensive talent, but being trusted defensively and focusing on both aspects of my game has been big.”

Chris Hedden was named an HCA National Co-Defender of the Month for his November play🏆

🔗: https://t.co/rPXBVRIqoq#NCAAHockey pic.twitter.com/lB1uDl2pS4

— Atlantic Hockey America (@Atlantic_Hockey) December 4, 2025

Hedden’s summer focused on his footwork, stickwork and shutting down opposing plays – all areas Hedden feels he’s improved this season. And he gives plenty of credit to associate head coach Joe Doyle.

Perhaps Hedden’s defensive play has led to offense too, and the Falcons’ entire defensive corps has been a bright spot. The Air Force roster features four of the nation’s top 50 point-producing defensemen.

While plus/minus can be misleading to some, Hedden’s rating is another reflection of his growth. He was a minus-6, minus-15 and minus-16 in each of his first three NCAA seasons. He’s currently a plus-6.

“When you look at his growth this season, you have to start with the plus/minus,” said head coach Frank Serratore. “Chris led us in points as a sophomore and was second as a junior, and he’s one of the best athletes we’ve had here. And his numbers speak volumes over the last three years. But he’s done a much better job picking his spots and being more responsible this season.

“He’s gone from a bit of a riverboat gambler to a really balanced defenseman. He’s averaging almost a point per game and he defends hard on top of it. He’s tough as nails and he’s really just become a complete player.”

On top of his point production, Hedden is the Falcons’ captain – something he takes a ton of pride in. He’s leading the way with his play and his voice in the locker room.

“Chris is a very intense, no-nonsense guy, and he wears his emotions on his sleeves,” Serratore said. “He’s a tireless worker and isn’t afraid to say it the way it is, but I think that’s why he’s so respected. And I think Chris is a much more complete player too, and that’s added to his credibility and confidence in the room.

“He’s leading us in every way – Offense, defense, power play, penalty kill and in the room. And he’s learned to use the people around him to better himself too. Because the individual talent has always been there, but he’s made himself a better overall player and done a great job setting an example for our group.”

Hedden named AHA Defenseman of the Week for fourth time in five weekshttps://t.co/z6C5Xy4dYn

— Air Force Hockey (@AF_HKY) December 9, 2025

Hedden committed to Air Force in 2020 and plans to honor his service commitment once he hangs his skates up. His father and brother both served and Chris had long been interested in the program. He’s currently a member of cadet squadron 21 and wants to eventually fly jets.

Hedden has now played 130 games for the Falcons and feels he’s ‘grown tremendously’ and matured as a person and hockey player, both of which he’s shown this fall.

“This place means a ton to me and it’s been an awesome experience on and off the ice,” he said. “At a military academy you learn a lot and it’s really structured, so discipline, hard work, attention to detail and country are stressed a lot. And honestly, I’ve gone from being a high-risk player to where I am now and being able to manage my game. So I’m just really grateful for the opportunities I’ve gotten here and what I’ve been able to do over the four years.”

How To Watch College Hockey On Flo

FloHockey is the streaming home of men's and women's Atlantic Hockey America conference action and home non-conference games. Additionally, you can find home games for the University of Alaska Fairbanks men's hockey, Long Island University men's hockey and Lindenwood men's hockey. FloHockey is also the streaming home to the NE10, select ACHA programs and the ACHA National Championships.

NHL Prospect Coverage On FloHockey

Looking for more? The best, and most complete, coverage of the NHL minor league hockey and NHL Draft is found on FloHockey. Don't miss the latest new prospect guides, rankings and more from Chris Peters and the FloHockey staff.

Watch The AHL, ECHL, USHL And More Great Leagues on FloHockey

FloHockey is the streaming home to some of the best hockey leagues in North America, from high-level amateur hockey to the American Hockey League and more. Check out the broadcast schedule to watch more hockey.

Join The Hockey Conversation On FloHockey Social

• Follow us on Twitter @FloHockey
• Follow us on Instagram @flohockey
• Follow us on TikTok @flohockeytv
• Watch us on YouTube
• Like us on Facebook