University Of North Dakota Mens Hockey
The University of North Dakota (UND) in Grand Forks, North Dakota, is home to one of the most successful NCAA Division I men's ice hockey programs in the country. The UND Fighting Hawks hockey team has won eight national championships, produced 51 NHL players, and has seen countless awards and accolades from players, coaches, and fans alike.
A Brief History
The UND Men's Hockey program began in the early 1900s, with the team playing games in local rinks and on outdoor ponds. The team struggled in the early years, often playing against much larger schools with established hockey programs. However, in 1950, the program began to take shape under the leadership of renowned coach Bob May. Under May's guidance, UND won its first NCAA championship in 1959, defeating heavily favored Michigan State.
Since that historic win, the Fighting Hawks have continued to build on their success, winning seven more national championships and becoming a consistent contender in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) and the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC). UND has sent countless players to the NHL, including stars such as Jonathan Toews, Zach Parise, and T.J. Oshie.
The Ralph Engelstad Arena
One of the keys to UND's success has been the state-of-the-art Ralph Engelstad Arena. The arena, which opened in 2001, is consistently ranked as one of the top college hockey arenas in the country, with a seating capacity of over 11,000 fans. The arena is also home to a variety of amenities, including luxury suites, a plush club lounge, and a spacious student section.
The Ralph, as it is affectionately known, has been the site of countless memorable moments in UND hockey history, including the team's national championship wins in 2016 and 2000.
Current Team
Under the guidance of head coach Brad Berry, the Fighting Hawks continue to be a force to be reckoned with in college hockey. The team's roster is filled with talented players from around the world, with many of them hailing from UND's home state of North Dakota. The team's top players include forward Shane Pinto, defenseman Jake Sanderson, and goaltender Adam Scheel.
Despite facing challenges in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and a shift to the NCHC, the Fighting Hawks remain a perennial contender for the NCAA championship. In fact, the team recently won the NCHC Frozen Faceoff tournament in dramatic fashion, defeating St. Cloud State in overtime to claim the title.
Conclusion
The University of North Dakota Men's Hockey program is one of the most storied and successful programs in the country. With a rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and a talented current roster, the Fighting Hawks show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. For hockey fans in North Dakota and beyond, UND hockey is a must-see experience.
