Montana Tech University secures a thrilling victory over the Junior A Butte Irish in a highly anticipated matchup, showcasing community collaboration and competitive spirit.

The inaugural Montana Cup Hockey Tournament took place at Steed Arena in Helena on February 14-15, showcasing Montana's collegiate hockey programs. Montana Tech University (Tech), along with the University of Montana (UM), Montana State University (MSU), and the University of Providence (UP), competed in this single-elimination event. MSU dominated Tech 18-0 in the opening round, advancing to the finals, where they defeated UP 5-2 to claim the championship. Tech's goalie Eddie Kazmierczak recorded an impressive 51 saves, despite the team's limited roster. The Montana Cup is expected to grow in the coming years.

Montana Tech Hockey wrapped up a tough Utah road trip and a challenging MSU matchup, facing off against Utah Valley University, Weber State University, Utah State University, and Montana State University. Despite tough losses, including a 13-2 defeat to UVU and a 22-0 blowout to MSU, the Orediggers showed resilience, with standout performances from goalies Ed Kazmierczak and Trenton Harrison, who made a combined 153 saves over the course of the road trip. Coach David Rathgeber praised the team's commitment to improving and building a competitive program, despite the challenges of a short bench due to injuries. The Diggers now turn their focus to their final games of the season, including the Montana Cup in Helena and a season-ending series against the University of Idaho.

Montana Tech Hockey Faces Tough Utah Utes in Post-Holiday Matchups

Montana Tech University's Diggers hockey team returned to the ice after the holiday break for a challenging two-game series against the 3rd-ranked Utah Utes. The games, held on January 17 and 18, marked the team's first since December 8. Despite a tough 9-0 loss in the opener and a 7-1 defeat in Game 2, standout performances from goalie Edward Kazmierczak and forward Dyland Aberle provided bright spots. The games also featured a special Military Appreciation Night, with proceeds supporting the Veterans Association of Montana Tech. Despite the losses, the Diggers showed resilience, improving their teamwork and confidence as they look ahead to future matchups.

Montana Tech Faces University of Montana in Final Game Before Holiday Break

Montana Tech Hockey competed in the 2023 Beehive Classic in Provo, Utah, from November 21-24, facing tough competition from Utah Valley University, Colorado State University, Arizona State University, and California State University Northridge. Despite challenging losses, including a 13-1 defeat to UVU and a 17-2 setback against ASU, Tech showed resilience with standout performances, including over 200 saves by goalie Brecken Kasse. The Orediggers look to improve and gain momentum as they prepare for their final game of the semester on December 8 against the University of Montana, featuring senior recognitions and a Teddy Bear Toss charity event for Butte Toys for Tots.

Montana Tech Hockey faced a tough road trip against Williston State College, losing three games in Williston, ND, and Sidney, MT. Despite strong individual performances, including goals from Riley Kelly, Mike McKay, and Colin McCarthy, the Diggers were overwhelmed by the Tetons in an 11-2, 7-1, and 10-1 loss. Goaltenders Edward Kazmierczak and Brecken Kasse combined for 189 saves, but penalty struggles and injuries hindered the team's efforts.

Montana Tech dropped both games in a home-and-home series against the University of Providence on November 15-16. In Game 1, Tech was defeated 10-2, with Sawyer Inman and Cade Holland scoring for the Diggers. Goalie Brecken Kasse made 77 saves despite facing 87 shots. In Game 2, Providence dominated with an 8-0 victory, scoring six goals in the first two periods. Kasse again showed resilience, stopping 68 of 75 shots

Montana Tech Hockey Falls to Utah Valley in Halloween Series

Montana Tech's hockey team was defeated by Utah Valley University in a two-game series over Halloween and November 1st. UVU dominated the first game with an 8-2 win and followed it up with an 8-0 victory in the second. Despite facing a high volume of shots, goalies Edward Kazmierczak and Brecken Kasse made impressive saves, with Kazmierczak stopping 59 shots in the first game and Kasse saving 52 in the second. The Orediggers struggled with penalties but showed resilience on the penalty kill. Full game recaps, goalie insights, and analysis available.

Montana Tech Hockey celebrates a thrilling "Pink the Rink" victory, defeating Eastern Washington University 8-7 in overtime. The Diggers split the weekend series with EWU, showcasing impressive performances and resilience on the ice.

Tech faced tough challenges at home against Williston and Montana State. How did they perform?

Tech secures a decisive road sweep against Idaho State, showcasing strong teamwork and skill. Read more about the highlights and key moments from the thrilling games