Jan Špunar: The Comically Honest Goalie with a Unique Story

UND's goaltender's journey from soccer to college hockey stardom is a tale of hard work and a one-of-a-kind personality.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:35am by Ben Kaplan

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a college hockey goaltender making a save, with the player's form broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant blue, green, and orange hues.A cubist interpretation of a college hockey goaltender's acrobatic saves, capturing the sport's dynamic energy through Picasso-esque geometric abstraction.Portland Today

Jan Špunar, the goaltender for the University of North Dakota (UND) hockey team, has a fascinating story. Coming from a soccer background, Špunar has become a standout college hockey player known for his calm demeanor and comically honest nature. As UND prepares for the NCAA Frozen Four, Špunar's journey from the Czech Republic to North America showcases the power of determination and a unique perspective on the sport.

Why it matters

Špunar's story highlights the global reach of hockey and the diverse paths players can take to reach the highest levels of the sport. His ability to balance a laid-back persona with a fierce competitive spirit has made him a fan favorite, and his journey serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere.

The details

Špunar initially came to North America to play for the Portland Winterhawks in the Western Hockey League, but had to move to the United States Hockey League (USHL) to be eligible for college. There, he earned all-USHL honors with his calm and controlled demeanor under pressure. Špunar's family in the Czech Republic has not seen him play in person since he was in Portland three seasons ago, due to the time difference and the fact that games are often at 2 or 3 in the morning.

  • Špunar was about seven years old when his soccer coach suggested he try playing hockey goalie.
  • Špunar played for the Portland Winterhawks in the Western Hockey League three seasons ago.
  • Špunar earned all-USHL honors while playing in the United States Hockey League.

The players

Jan Špunar

The goaltender for the University of North Dakota (UND) hockey team, known for his calm demeanor and comically honest nature.

Trevor Edwards

The general manager of the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the USHL, who praised Špunar's calmness under pressure.

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What they’re saying

“Špunar's calmness is going to serve him well as pressure goes up, and his playoff numbers bear this out.”

— Trevor Edwards, General Manager, Dubuque Fighting Saints

What’s next

As UND prepares for the NCAA Frozen Four, Špunar's journey will continue to be a focus of attention, with fans eager to see if he can lead his team to a national championship.

The takeaway

Špunar's story is a testament to the power of hard work and a unique perspective on the sport of hockey. His ability to balance his laid-back persona with a fierce competitive spirit has made him a fan favorite, and his journey serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere.