UND Hockey Prepares for Hall of Fame Game

The Fighting Hawks return to practice in Grand Forks after dropping two games against Minnesota.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Hockey

UND Hockey Prepares for Hall of Fame Game

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Following a pair of losses to Minnesota on October 22 and October 23, the University of North Dakota men's hockey team returned to the ice for practice at Ralph Engelstad Arena on Sunday. The squad is now shifting its focus toward a neutral-site matchup in Texas.

Why it matters

The practice session marks an essential reset for the team as they look to correct recent performance issues before entering upcoming conference competition. Rebuilding momentum is a priority for the coaching staff after the team dropped two consecutive contests.

The No. 8-ranked Fighting Hawks enter the week with a 4-2 record. They prepare to face No. 4-ranked Michigan State this Saturday.

The players

Dane Jackson

He is the head coach leading the University of North Dakota men's hockey program.

University of North Dakota

This public research university in Grand Forks fields a prominent collegiate hockey team.

The details

Coached by Dane Jackson, the team held a Sunday workout to sharpen their fundamentals after a difficult weekend series. The group will continue their preparations in Grand Forks before traveling to Austin on Thursday, followed by a final practice at the H-E-B Center on Friday.

October 22, 2026: UND lost their first game against Minnesota.
October 23, 2026: UND lost their second game against Minnesota.
October 25, 2026: The team held a practice at Ralph Engelstad Arena.
October 29, 2026: The team is scheduled to travel to Austin, Texas.
October 31, 2026: UND plays Michigan State at 7:07 p.m. in the Hall of Fame Game.

Season Trajectory

This non-conference Hall of Fame Game acts as a critical dress rehearsal before the team begins its schedule within the National Collegiate Hockey Conference. Securing a win against a top-five opponent like Michigan State could significantly impact the team's standing in the national rankings.

The team faces No. 4 Michigan State this Saturday with a current No. 8 national ranking on the line. Practice times are set for 11 a.m. for UND and noon for Michigan State at the H-E-B Center this Friday.

The takeaway

Maintaining focus during travel weeks is crucial for maintaining a high national standing in collegiate hockey. Fans should watch the Saturday matchup to see if the recent practice adjustments translate into a win against a top-tier opponent.

What happens next

The Fighting Hawks will face Michigan State on October 31, 2026, at 7:07 p.m. in the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game, followed by the commencement of their conference schedule against Western Michigan.