Notre Dame Hockey Kicks Off Season at Compton Arena: A New Chapter Begins

Photo byWSBT photo

NOTRE DAME — Excitement fills the air as the Notre Dame hockey team prepares to hit the ice for the first time this season at Compton Arena on Friday night. This opening game not only marks the beginning of a new hockey season but also celebrates the 20th and final year of the legendary Jeff Jackson as head coach.

In a time-honored tradition, the Irish will face off against a familiar opponent—the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP). This exhibition matchup has become a staple of the Irish schedule, with Notre Dame taking on the national program for the eighth time in the last ten years. The USNTDP features some of the brightest young talents in the country, showcasing the top 18-year-olds who aspire to make their mark in collegiate and professional hockey.

Over the years, the relationship between Notre Dame and the national program has proven fruitful, with 54 players from the USNTDP going on to don the Irish jersey. Among the current roster are five players who have made this transition: forwards Justin Janicke, Danny Nelson, and Carter Slaggert, defenseman Paul Fischer, and goaltender Nicholas Kempf. Their experiences with the national program will add depth and skill to the team as they embark on this season.

As the puck drops on what promises to be an exciting year, fans and players alike are eager to see how this season unfolds under the guidance of Coach Jackson, whose impact on Notre Dame hockey has been profound. The Irish look to build on their legacy and create memorable moments as they skate into the future.