First Glimpse: UND Hockey Coaches Meet Their New Squad

It was a crisp September morning at the Ralph Engelstad Arena when the North Dakota men’s hockey staff finally got to see the guys they’ll be guiding this season. Coach Brad Berry, his assistants and the support staff shuffled onto the ice, notebooks in hand, ready to size up a roster that blends seasoned veterans with a wave of new talent.

There’s a certain buzz that comes with those first looks – a mix of excitement and a dash of nervous anticipation. “We’ve got a lot of good blood here,” Berry said, glancing at a line of players stretching and lugging their sticks. “It’s just about figuring out how it all clicks.”

The practice was low‑key, more of a walk‑through than a full‑blown scrimmage. Players ran through basic drills, worked on face‑offs, and took a few controlled snaps at the net. It gave the coaches a chance to see who’s got the quick‑release, who’s still finding his stride, and which young guys might be ready to earn a top‑six role sooner than expected.

Returning leaders like senior defenseman J.T. Koskinen and forward Matt Hansen immediately drew attention. Their poise on the ice and vocal presence in the locker room reminded the staff why they’re counted on to set the tone. Meanwhile, fresh faces – a couple of promising freshmen from Minnesota and a transfer from a rival program – showed flashes of the skill that got them to Grand Forks in the first place.

Beyond the on‑ice drills, the session served another purpose: building chemistry. Coaches leaned in, asked questions, and players answered with a blend of confidence and humility. Those early conversations often foreshadow the leadership dynamics that will shape the season.

As the final whistle blew, the staff walked off with a clearer picture of strengths, gaps, and the work that lies ahead. It’s still early days, but the vibe in the arena was unmistakably hopeful – a sign that the Fighting Hawks are ready to chase another shot at the national title.