University Of North Dakota Men's Hockey
The University of North Dakota Men's Hockey team is one of the most successful college hockey programs in the United States. The team has a long and storied history that dates back to the early 1900s. Over the years, the Fighting Hawks have won multiple national championships and have produced a number of NHL players. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of the UND Men's Hockey program and examine what makes it so special.
A Brief History of UND Men's Hockey
The UND Men's Hockey program was founded in 1929 and played its first game against North Dakota State University. The team quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with, winning its first conference championship in 1930.
Over the years, the Fighting Hawks have continued to be a dominant force in college hockey. They have won eight national championships (in 1959, 1963, 1980, 1982, 1987, 1997, 2000, and 2016), seven WCHA regular season championships, and have made 22 Frozen Four appearances.
Many NHL players have come through the UND Men's Hockey program, including Zach Parise, Jonathan Toews, T.J. Oshie, and more. The team has also produced several coaches who have gone on to have successful careers at other schools and in the NHL.
What Makes the UND Men's Hockey Program So Special?
There are many factors that contribute to the success and excellence of the UND Men's Hockey program. Here are just a few:
Top-Notch Facilities
The Ralph Engelstad Arena is one of the premier hockey facilities in the country. It has a capacity of over 11,600 and features state-of-the-art equipment and amenities. The arena is named after Ralph Engelstad, a former UND hockey player and successful businessman who donated millions of dollars to the program.
Elite Coaching Staff
The UND Men's Hockey program has been led by some of the best coaches in college hockey history. Names like Gino Gasparini, Dean Blais, and Dave Hakstol are synonymous with UND hockey. The current head coach, Brad Berry, is a former UND player who has led the team to a national championship in 2016.
A Winning Tradition
UND Men's Hockey players are expected to compete at the highest level and to win. The team has a proud tradition of excellence and success, and that tradition is passed down from generation to generation of players.
A Strong Commitment to Academic Excellence
At UND, student-athletes are expected to excel both on the ice and in the classroom. The Men's Hockey program has a strong emphasis on academic success and provides resources and support to help players succeed both academically and athletically.
Conclusion
The University of North Dakota Men's Hockey program is a true powerhouse in college hockey. Its rich history of excellence, top-notch facilities, elite coaching staff, winning tradition, and strong commitment to academic success make it one of the most respected and successful programs in the country. Whether you're a hockey fan or not, it's impossible not to be impressed by what the Fighting Hawks have accomplished over the years.
