Ben Dexheimer's leadership a valuable asset for Wisconsin hockey

The senior captain's game-winning goal in the regional final was a just desert for a player who has been a driving force behind UW's success this year.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:23am

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Ben Dexheimer, the senior captain of the Wisconsin men's hockey team, has been a key leader for the Badgers this season. Despite some personal adversity, including a goal that deflected off his stick and a penalty that led to a power play goal for the opposing team, Dexheimer has remained focused on leading his team. His game-winning goal in the regional final sent Wisconsin to the Frozen Four, the team's first appearance since 2010.

Why it matters

Dexheimer's leadership has been crucial for the Badgers, who entered the season fresh off three losing seasons in four years and were relying on a large number of underclassmen. His ability to guide the team through ups and downs has been a major factor in their success this year.

The details

Dexheimer, an offensive defenseman, has been part of Wisconsin's top defensive line and has been one of the nation's top offensive defensemen this season. He ranks fourth on the team with 27 points and has scored a team-high four game-winning goals. In the regional final against Michigan State, Dexheimer overcame a goal that deflected off his stick and a penalty that led to a power play goal for the Spartans, leading the Badgers to a comeback victory.

  • On March 28, Dexheimer scored the game-winning goal to send Wisconsin to the Frozen Four.
  • Wisconsin (23-12-2) will face North Dakota (29-9-1) in a national semifinal on Thursday, April 9, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
  • The winner will advance to the national championship game on April 11.

The players

Ben Dexheimer

The senior captain of the Wisconsin men's hockey team, who has been a driving force behind the Badgers' success this season.

Mike Hastings

The head coach of the Wisconsin men's hockey team, who praised Dexheimer's leadership and the impact it has had on the team.

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What they’re saying

“This game will pay you back if you pay a price. Not all the time, but more often than not.”

— Mike Hastings, Head Coach, Wisconsin Men's Hockey

“First and foremost, I want to thank his mom and dad. That family has crushed it. I wish (someone would) tell them to write a book because I'd read it.”

— Mike Hastings, Head Coach, Wisconsin Men's Hockey

“We've had our ups and downs all year and this group has just stuck with it, so, taking one off the stick and then being in the box for the one wasn't the end of the world. We just put our foot down and kept going to work and eventually it paid off.”

— Ben Dexheimer, Senior Captain, Wisconsin Men's Hockey

What’s next

Wisconsin will face North Dakota in the Frozen Four national semifinal on Thursday, April 9, with the winner advancing to the national championship game on April 11.

The takeaway

Ben Dexheimer's leadership and resilience have been crucial factors in Wisconsin's success this season. Despite facing some personal adversity, he has remained focused on guiding his team and has played a pivotal role in the Badgers' run to the Frozen Four, the program's first appearance in the national semifinals since 2010.