Dave Hakstol Leads Arizona State Hockey Transition

The former NHL head coach is reshaping the Tempe program following an early-season series sweep at UMass-Lowell.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Hockey

Expressive editorial sports illustration of hockey players in maroon and gold jerseys skating intensely across the ice rink. — Head coach Dave Hakstol is conducting an intensive training camp for the Arizona State hockey team following their road sweep at UMass-Lowell. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Dave Hakstol has officially stepped into his role as the second head coach in Arizona State Division I hockey history. His arrival follows a strong start for the team, which currently holds a 4-2 record after sweeping a road series at UMass-Lowell.

Why it matters

Hakstol aims to build a new foundation for the program by leveraging his extensive background as both an NHL head coach and a long-time collegiate leader. He views the position in Tempe as an ideal opportunity for his career and his family.

Dave Hakstol brings a track record of 11 seasons coaching at North Dakota and seven seasons at the NHL level. The team currently holds a 4-2 record as they prepare for the first conference week.

The players

Dave Hakstol

He is the second head coach in Arizona State Division I hockey history and previously served as an NHL head coach for seven seasons.

Arizona State University

This Tempe-based institution is currently working to establish itself as a perennial contender in Division I collegiate hockey.

UMass-Lowell

The hockey program at this university recently hosted Arizona State for a series sweep.

St. Cloud State

This institution is the upcoming conference opponent for the Arizona State hockey team.

The details

The coaching staff is utilizing the current bye week to execute a five-day mini training camp focused on rebuilding the team structure from top to bottom. This intensive period is designed to improve performance before the squad faces St. Cloud State.

October 22, 2026: The article detailing the coaching transition was published.
The current week: Arizona State hockey is holding a five-day mini training camp during its bye week.

Season Trajectory

The coaching staff aims to put the team in a position to enter the NCAA Division I men's hockey tournament. This focus on long-term tournament qualification marks a significant shift in the team's season strategy.

The team's current 4-2 non-conference record provides momentum heading into the critical first conference week against St. Cloud State. Fans can look for immediate changes in tactical structure during this upcoming series following the mini training camp.

The takeaway

The program is prioritizing a top-to-bottom structural rebuild to capitalize on its early-season success. By integrating Hakstol's extensive professional experience, the team is positioning itself for a deep run in national competition.