UND's Kernan goes from uncommitted to Frozen Four contributor

Freshman forward Jack Kernan scored two goals in the Fighting Hawks' NCAA tournament win over Quinnipiac.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:53pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey player in mid-action, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, forest green, and crimson red conveying the raw energy and movement of the sport.Kernan's two-goal performance in the NCAA regional final propelled UND to the Frozen Four, showcasing the program's ability to quickly integrate new talent.Grand Forks Today

Jack Kernan, a freshman forward for the University of North Dakota (UND) hockey team, has had a remarkable journey this season. A year ago, Kernan did not have a college commitment, but he has now become a key contributor for the Fighting Hawks, scoring two goals in their 5-0 NCAA regional final win over Quinnipiac. Kernan originally committed to Minnesota State in 2023 but re-opened his recruitment in 2025, ultimately choosing to join UND and its newly formed coaching staff led by Dane Jackson.

Why it matters

Kernan's rapid development and emergence as a key player for UND's Frozen Four run highlights the program's ability to quickly rebuild and integrate new talent. His story also showcases the impact that a strong coaching staff and supportive fan base can have on a player's decision to commit to a university.

The details

Kernan scored a team-high 52 points for the Des Moines Buccaneers in the 2024-25 season, but the transition to college hockey wasn't easy. He had just five points in his first 15 games, but has since found his stride, scoring four goals and adding five assists in his last seven games. Kernan has played both center and wing on the third and fourth lines, filling in wherever he's needed.

  • Kernan originally committed to Minnesota State in 2023.
  • Kernan re-opened his recruiting in 2025.
  • Kernan committed to UND on April 18, 2025.
  • Kernan scored two goals in UND's 5-0 NCAA regional final win over Quinnipiac on March 28, 2026.
  • UND will face Wisconsin in the Frozen Four semifinal on April 9, 2026.

The players

Jack Kernan

A freshman forward for the University of North Dakota hockey team who has emerged as a key contributor during the team's Frozen Four run.

Dane Jackson

The newly appointed head coach of the University of North Dakota hockey team, who led the program's on-the-fly rebuild and brought in several key additions like Kernan.

Bryn Chyzyk

The general manager of the University of North Dakota hockey team, who previously held the same role with the Waterloo Black Hawks in the United States Hockey League.

Matt Smaby

The associate head coach of the University of North Dakota hockey team, who was the head coach of the Waterloo Black Hawks during Kernan's time with the Des Moines Buccaneers.

E.J. Emery

A sophomore defenseman for the University of North Dakota hockey team, who praised Kernan's shot and ability to show up in big moments.

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What they’re saying

“It's always awesome to have a pretty impactful game, especially a game like that. So hopefully I'll keep that momentum rolling. It was a pretty surreal moment to do that in front of family, friends and then all the fans. ... Still can't believe I'm even in this position, especially now going to the Frozen Four with such a great team. It was a wild ride, and I'm just thankful this is where it ended. It's been amazing, and I wouldn't want it any different.”

— Jack Kernan, Freshman Forward

“You see his shot in practice, and it amazes you every day. He's one of those players that can show up in big moments, and he loves the spotlight. He loves showing up for his team. So it's nice to see him get those two goals.”

— E.J. Emery, Sophomore Defenseman

“Jack had a bit of a start that was probably a little bit inconsistent. But as the season's gone on, he's just played better and better, and he's been such a strong player. He skates so well. He's got a really strong stick. I think he's got good sense, but he plays fast, he plays hard, and he plays direct. And I think at this time of year in playoff hockey, those are effective attributes.”

— Dane Jackson, Head Coach

What’s next

UND will face Wisconsin in the Frozen Four semifinal on April 9, 2026 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The takeaway

Kernan's rapid development and emergence as a key player for UND's Frozen Four run showcases the program's ability to quickly rebuild and integrate new talent. His story highlights the impact that a strong coaching staff and supportive fan base can have on a player's decision to commit to a university.