C.J. Suess Bio
Clint Joseph “C.J.” Suess is an American professional ice hockey forward currently playing for Dresdner Eislöwen in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL). Born on March 17, 1994, in Roseville, Minnesota, Suess has made significant contributions to the teams he has played for, including the Winnipeg Jets and San Jose Sharks in the National Hockey League (NHL). His journey through hockey has been marked by notable achievements, including representing Team USA and excelling in college hockey at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Early Life and Background
C.J. Suess was born Clinston R. Franklin to his mother, Cheryl Suess. He began skating at the age of four in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, alongside his cousins. After moving to Forest Lake, Minnesota, Suess was primarily raised by his mother, who he credits as a significant influence in his life. He has expressed admiration for hockey player Jarome Iginla, recognizing him as a successful black athlete in the sport. This early exposure to skating and hockey laid the foundation for his future career.
Path to Hockey
Suess attended Forest Lake Area High School, where he played ice hockey under the guidance of former Minnesota State defenseman Aaron Forsythe. During his high school career, he earned three letters and was a two-time Suburban East All-Conference selection. His performance as a team captain during his junior and senior years showcased his leadership abilities. After high school, Suess played for the Sioux Falls Stampede in the United States Hockey League (USHL), where he led the team in scoring and was selected to represent Team USA at the 2013 World Junior A Challenge, contributing to their gold medal victory. This experience propelled him to sign a Letter of Intent with Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he continued to develop his skills and make a name for himself in collegiate hockey.
C.J. Suess Career
Early Career (2014–2018)
Suess played college hockey for the Minnesota State Mavericks from 2014 to 2018. In his rookie season, he recorded 9 goals and 19 assists, tying for sixth among team scoring leaders. He made an immediate impact by scoring his first collegiate goal in an overtime win against the Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs. Throughout his college career, Suess transitioned from left wing to center and was recognized for his contributions, being named to the WCHA All-Rookie Team and later earning honors such as the WCHA Player of the Year and the WCHA Offensive Player of the Year during his senior year. He concluded his collegiate career with 127 points, ranking fifth on the school’s all-time scoring list during the NCAA Division I era.
Breakthrough (2018–Present)
After graduating, Suess signed an amateur tryout agreement with the Manitoba Moose, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Winnipeg Jets. He began his professional career in the 2018–19 season but faced challenges with injuries. Despite this, he made his NHL debut with the Winnipeg Jets on November 11, 2019, against the San Jose Sharks. Suess continued to develop in the AHL, finishing the season with 27 points in 57 games. In October 2020, he signed a two-year contract extension with the Jets organization. After a season with the San Jose Sharks, Suess returned to the Manitoba Moose in July 2023, further solidifying his presence in professional hockey. He is set to join Dresdner Eislöwen for the 2025–26 season, marking his first contract abroad.
C.J. Suess Award Nominations
C.J. Suess has received recognition for his performance throughout his hockey career, including nominations and honors during his collegiate years, particularly in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA).
C.J. Suess Awards Won
Suess has achieved several accolades during his time in college hockey, including being named to the WCHA First All-Star Team and receiving the WCHA Player of the Year award, becoming the first Maverick to earn this distinction. His contributions to Team USA at the World Junior A Challenge also highlight his international success.