UMD Men’s Hockey Relying on Veterans Ahead of New Year

UMD opens the season October 3rd at Alaska Fairbanks.

DULUTH, Minn.- The UMD men’s hockey team is coming off another down year. But, the beauty of a new season means everyone starts over from scratch.

The Bulldogs, who are just a little over two weeks from their season opener in Alaska, return a lot of talent.

Those back include defenseman Joey Pierce, Aaron Pionk, and Ty Hanson. Plus, forward Max Plante.

All four of those players are part of the five leaders for the team this season.

Head Coach Scott Sandelin detailed the characteristics that make them fit for the job.

“I think they all have the same qualities. Number one, they’re really good people. They work extremely hard. They compete hard. They want to win. They’re very driven. And they kind of epitomize what we want our program to be about,” said Sandelin.

“From the start it’s been a lead by example. I’ve probably been a quiter guy at times but something I’ve pushed myself and I feel like I have improved on is being more vocal. Both last year as an assistant captain and then already this summer,” added defenseman Joey Pierce.

The Bulldogs have plenty of fresh faces this year, which include Cornell transfer Kyler Kovich and Western Hockey League product Grayden Siepmann.

“When I was able to reach out and talk to UMD it was a no brainer. Between school, coaching, the guys on the team, there was really no other choice that could be made there. With Scott Sandelin, our head coach, unbelievable coach, years of experience, the championships,” said Kovich.

“Obviously I’m a little new to this. Don’t know what to expect. I’m only going to be playing on the weekends, half the amount of games that I’m used to. But, so far I’ve been here for a month or so and everyday has been a blast,” added Siepmann.

Kovich, Siepmann, and the rest of the Bulldogs will begin their 2025-2026 campaign on October 3rd at Alaska Fairbanks.