(KNOX) – The UND Hockey Team starts a new season this weekend with two exhibition games at the Ralph Englestad Arena. The Fighting Hawks will host Augustana Saturday, and Manitoba Sunday.
UND made the Frozen Four last season, and won 29 games under first year Head Coach Dane Jackson.
Sophomore Forward Cole Reschny was voted by his peers as this year’s team captain. He’s the youngest team captain in history and the third underclassmen to wear the captain’s patch. He says it’s a privilege to have such recognition.
Reschny had 6 goals, 29 assists and 35 points as a freshman last year, leading to him being named the NCHC Rookie of the Year. He’s happy to have contributed in the ways he did last season.
Reschny is a draft prospect for the Calgary Flames. He was selected 18th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft. He says his time with the Fighting Hawks will help him get ready for the next level.
This year’s team has a lot of underclassmen who are either going from freshman to sophomores, or they are first year players. There’s also a handful of upperclassmen who loo to fill voids that are left by longtime players no longer with the program. Reschny says the team will have a next man up mentality.
Reschny also spoke about what is was like playing under Coach Jackson last season. He says its rewarding to play for a coach like him.
As the Fighting Hawks play this Saturday and Sunday, Reschny says these games will be a good warm up to begin the season.
UND has won eight national championship, but they last won it all in 2016. Reschny says the team has a simple approach to winning another national title for the program.
The Fighting Hawks play on Saturday at 7pm, and Sunday at 3pm.
Earlier today was media day, and players interviews will be published tomorrow (Thursday).
Sign up below to get weekly local sports schedules and highlights delivered to your inbox!
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
