Pioneers hockey players celebrate after their victory over Ferris State. Photo: DU Athletics
For the first time since 2005, the University of Denver men’s hockey team is heading back to the Frozen Four. The Pioneers defeated Ferris State by a score of 6-3 on Sunday to win the West Regional portion of the 2016 NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament. The Pioneers now advance to the national semifinals, where they’ll face the North Dakota Fighting Hawks at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla., on Thursday, April 7. This is the 14th time that DU has advanced to the Frozen Four.
Freshman defenseman Blake Hillman was named Most Outstanding Player for the West Regional after netting the game-winning goal on Sunday and finishing the weekend with four points. Sophomore goaltender Tanner Jaillet, meanwhile, made 18 saves against FSU to improve to 3-1 in his career at the NCAA Tournament.
“It’s a special feeling to be heading to the Frozen Four, especially as a senior,” Denver captain Grant Arnold said after Sunday’s win. “We’ve had some tough losses in this tournament during my career, but that just makes this victory all the more sweet. It’s awesome to be able to take this step for DU and for everyone that’s ever worn a Pioneers jersey. We can’t wait to get to Tampa and continue our quest for an eighth national title for this great program.”