In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, UND senior Ben Strinden is making headlines for his remarkable performance in November. But this isn't just a story of a talented player; it's a tale of self-belief and seizing opportunities.
Strinden, a forward for the University of North Dakota (UND) hockey team, has been on a tear, leaving his coach, Dane Jackson, in awe. Jackson, who has witnessed numerous players blossom into offensive powerhouses, admits that Strinden's transformation is unique.
And here's where it gets interesting: Strinden's November performance saw him shatter his previous career records, scoring seven goals and racking up 12 points, just two points shy of the national lead. What's even more impressive is that all but one of those goals were scored at 5-on-5, a testament to his raw talent and skill.
The NCHC (National Collegiate Hockey Conference) recognized Strinden's excellence by naming him the Forward of the Month. Jackson reflects on Strinden's journey, stating, "It's rare for players to make such a leap in their senior year." He acknowledges that Strinden's potential might have been underestimated, but his dynamic abilities are now on full display.
Strinden, a native of Fargo, currently leads UND in scoring with nine goals and 17 points. As he heads into a crucial series against St. Cloud State, he carries a four-game goal streak, a testament to his consistency and confidence.
Strinden's success is a result of his unwavering self-belief. He shares, "I've always believed in myself, and this year, with more opportunities, I'm playing freely and enjoying the game." This mindset shift, combined with the team's overall performance, has been a recipe for success.
But here's the twist: Strinden's linemates have been a revolving door due to injuries. Despite this, he has thrived, showcasing his adaptability. He praises the team's depth, saying, "Our team is so skilled that anyone can play with anyone and excel." This adaptability is a key strength of the UND squad.
Strinden's impact extends beyond the scoresheet. He's been the catalyst for the No. 5-ranked Fighting Hawks, scoring the first goal in four consecutive games, including an exhibition match. In conference play, he's tied for the league lead in goals, further solidifying his status as a top performer.
Jackson provides insight into Strinden's evolution, noting his powerful skating and shooting abilities. He highlights Strinden's ability to position himself well and capitalize on passes, a skill not every player possesses.
UND's depth is further emphasized by Will Zellers, who, despite not playing on Strinden's line, was named the NCHC Rookie of the Month. Zellers' success is a testament to the program's strength and ability to develop top-tier players.
As UND enters this weekend's series ranked eighth nationally in goals per game, Jackson praises the team's positive mindset and confidence. He understands the importance of players feeling good about their game, which is evident in UND's recent performances.
This weekend's series against St. Cloud State promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Strinden and the Fighting Hawks looking to continue their dominant form. Will Strinden's self-belief and newfound confidence propel him to even greater heights? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: his November performance has left a lasting impression on the college hockey scene.
