Tue, 05 May 2026 22:54:19 +0000

How One Hockey Game Changed the Heart of Notre Dame Hockey Forever When you think of Notre Dame hockey, you’re likely thinking of a program that combines tradition, passion, and resilience. But behind every legendary season lies a single pivotal game that reshaped the identity of the program—forever altering its spirit, culture, and future. The 2018 Frozen Four clinching overtime victory stands not just as a triumph on the ice, but as a defining moment that transformed Notre Dame hockey from a strong contender into a program deeply rooted in heart, unity, and legacy. ### The Night That Shook the Nickel Dome It was a cold, snow-drenched March evening when the 2018 Frozen Four arrived at Notre Dame’s Nickel Dome for the championship game. The crowd roared, tensions were thick, and every player felt the weight of tradition. Entering the final period, Notre Dame trailed by a single goal—just 2:17 into the overtime period. The score was tied, adrenaline hummed, and the moment stretched almost timeless. Then, in the dying seconds of regulation, a breakaway shot from defenseman Emily Hunt China exploded through the net, silencing the arena and igniting a frenzy of celebration. The goal sealed a 3-2 victory and clinched the national championship.