KALAMAZOO, Mich. – The Rochester Americans announced today that the team has signed forward Liam Valente to a one-year American Hockey League contract for the 2026-27 season. He will play out the remainder of the current season with the Amerks on a Professional Tryout.

The veteran forward was a big piece for the Broncos in 2025-26, leading the Brown and Gold to a 27-win season and a fifth straight NCAA Tournament appearance. WMU was also a No. 1 seed for the third time in the last five years.
 
In just two years with the Broncos, Valente was able to produce 68 points on 34 goals and 34 assists. He lit the lamp 20 times on the power play and was +20. Additionally, he helped WMU win its first ever National Championship, Penrose Cup and NCHC Frozen Faceoff title.
 
The Swedish forward had a prolific senior season, finishing with 20 goals, four game-winning tallies and a +12 rating in 39 games. He led the NCHC in power-play goals and was third in total goals. His 35 points put him at 12th in the league.
 
His junior season was just as good, with Valente totaling 33 points on 14 goals and 19 assists. He was the Fargo Regional Most Outstanding Player, tallying two goals and one assist in wins over Minnesota State and UMass.
 
He was a two-time NCHC Academic All-Conference performer, and the Broncos won 61 games during his time with the program.