UMD Men’s Hockey Returns to NCHC Play with Bout Against St. Cloud State

UMD holds a four-game home winning streak against St. Cloud State that dates back to January of 2023.

DULUTH, Minn.- Like the UMD women’s hockey team, the UMD men’s team will also be hosting the Huskies of St. Cloud State this weekend.

In recent years, the series has been split down the middle with each team picking up five wins in the last 10 meetings.

However, UMD does hold a four-game home winning streak against St. Cloud State that dates back to January of 2023.

Head Coach Scott Sandelin gave props to his opponent this upcoming weekend and added that defensive play will be a point of emphasis for his team.

“They’re a good team just like everyone in our league. They have some size, certainly up front that again you have to win battles with. We have to defend number one and then we have to find ways to get to their net. Hopefully our special teams on the power play with the groups that we have can take advantage of those opportunities too,” said Sandelin.

UMD will receive a boost to their lineup as both Max Plante and Adam Kleber return from winning gold at the World Juniors. Plante said the feeling of winning has energized him.

“I still haven’t won my first college hockey game but I’ve won six world junior games. I’m looking forward to playing for the Dogs again. Hopefully in the 2nd half we start getting on a roll and winning hockey games. Whatever Kleber and I have to do to make that happen,” said Plante.

Plante battled an injury earlier this year and has only played in five games for UMD this season. He’ll get his shot at his first win on Friday with puck drop scheduled for 7:07 PM at Amsoil Arena.