UND Fighting Hawks Prepare for NCAA Frozen Four Showdown

Psychological chess match between UND and Quinnipiac sets the stage for high-stakes hockey action.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:38pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game in progress, with the players and ice surface broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the UND Fighting Hawks and Quinnipiac Bobcats. The image conveys the strategic complexity and emotional intensity of the Frozen Four matchup.The psychological chess match between UND and Quinnipiac sets the stage for a high-stakes Frozen Four showdown, where the teams' ability to adapt and outthink their opponent will be the true test of champions.Sioux Falls Today

As the UND Fighting Hawks prepare to face Quinnipiac in the NCAA Frozen Four, the focus extends beyond the ice. The strategic dance between the teams' coaches, the impact of the ice conditions, and the emotional boost of Ollie Josephson's return create a compelling narrative that suggests the game will be won or lost in the small moments of puck battles, transitions, and split-second decisions.

Why it matters

This matchup is more than just a ticket to the Frozen Four - it's a test of resilience, strategy, and mental fortitude. The team that emerges victorious will be the one that embraces the chaos, the uncertainty, and the pressure, proving they have what it takes to be champions.

The details

Quinnipiac's 1-1-3 neutral zone strategy poses a tactical challenge, but UND coach Dane Jackson is unfazed, focusing on puck management and patience. The ice conditions, initially reported as less than ideal, have improved, creating a level playing field that both teams must adapt to mentally. Ollie Josephson's return to practice, even if he doesn't play, could provide the emotional boost UND needs.

  • The Frozen Four qualifier between UND and Quinnipiac will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Ollie Josephson skated with the UND team for the first time since his lower-body injury on Thursday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Dane Jackson

The head coach of the UND Fighting Hawks, known for his focus on puck management and patience.

Rand Pecknold

The head coach of the Quinnipiac Bobcats, who has praised the UND team as a strategic move to shift the pressure onto the Fighting Hawks.

Ollie Josephson

The UND center who has been sidelined with a lower-body injury but recently returned to practice, providing an emotional boost to the team.

Jake Livanavage

The UND defenseman who noted an improvement in the ice conditions on Thursday, suggesting the teams will be playing on a more level surface.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.