Gophers men’s hockey announces next season’s home opponents

Tuesday, the University of Minnesota’s men’s hockey program announced its home opponents for the 2021-22 season.

The Gophers will welcome four nonconference teams to campus with games against Alaska Fairbanks, Mercyhurst, St. Cloud State and Minnesota Duluth. Six Big Ten opponents will also visit 3M Arena at Mariucci: Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Penn State and Wisconsin.

Five of the Gophers’ 10 home opponents next year earned NCAA tournament berths last season, according to the university.

Next year will mark the 101st season of Gopher men’s hockey.

Additionally, Minnesota will host the U.S. Under-18 Team in exhibition action next season.

"There is so much to be excited for as we start looking at the 2021-22 Gopher Hockey season, and that starts with each and every one of you as we continue to be optimistic about welcoming Gopher fans back to 3M Arena at Mariucci next year. We can’t wait to celebrate the first century of Gopher Hockey and get started on the next 100 years with our fans, our alumni and all of our supporters," Minnesota head coach Bob Motzko said. "We’re also really excited about the team we will put on the ice. We’ve got a great core group coming back after a terrific season last year, and if you liked watching our team play in 2020-21 you can plan on more of the same in 2021-22."