Jackson Gets North Dakota Back to Frozen Four
College Hockey News • • sports
Key Points:
- North Dakota dominated Quinnipiac 5-0 in the NCAA Regional Final, securing a Frozen Four spot for the first time in a decade, showcasing their balanced team effort with strong offense, defense, and goaltending.
- Freshman goaltender Jan Špunar was named Most Outstanding Player of the Region, recording back-to-back shutouts and setting a program record with six shutouts this season.
- The Fighting Hawks' success was fueled by contributions from multiple forward lines, including standout performances by Cody Croal, Jack Kernan, and Tyler Young, supported by strong defensive plays from Abram Wiebe and others.
- North Dakota coach Dane Jackson emphasized the significance of reaching the Frozen Four as a measure of success, highlighting the team's growth and resilience throughout the season.
- Quinnipiac, despite a strong season and leadership from their senior captains, struggled in the final game, with coach Rand Pecknold reflecting on the team's youth and areas for growth moving forward.
