Tyler Morgan | Hockey Coach | MACHA Championship Review | February 26, 2026

·20 min·2 clips

With 15 minutes left in the championship, Zach Espenson scores the breakthrough goal against Nebraska Omaha.

Host interviews Dordt University hockey coach Tyler Morgan following their MACHA championship win in February 2026. Morgan opens by describing the physical and mental exhaustion from playing three games over four days, including an eight-hour drive home. He recounts the first game against Olivet Nazarene, an unknown opponent where Mason Carroll scored two early goals to build confidence. The semifinal against Arkansas is framed as a revenge match after a double-overtime loss two years prior, with Morgan noting the teams mirrored each other in competitiveness. A day off before the final provided crucial recovery. The championship game against Nebraska Omaha was scoreless for two periods, featuring a goaltending duel between Tim Nansen and UNO's goalie. Zach Espenson broke the deadlock with a goal 15 minutes from time, and Spetcher added an empty-netter to seal the 2-0 win. Morgan praises Nansen's tournament performance of 90 saves on 92 shots and explains how that reliability allows the team to play more offensively. He discusses the roster's blend of youth and experience, with 13 underclassmen and seven sophomores who only know winning. Recruiting focuses on players who fit the campus culture and prioritize team success over individual accolades, avoiding 'me monsters.' Morgan reflects on the drive home, emphasizing pride in the players' collective achievement and the lasting legacy of banners. The episode closes with congratulations on back-to-back championships and a look ahead to nationals.

As heard by us

A coach's view of the fatigue, nerves, and pride behind Dort's back-to-back MACHA championships.

Dort's MACHA tournament comes through as a compact test of legs, nerves, and recovery, with three games in four days giving the episode its shape.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want the view from the bus after Dort wins three MACHA tournament games in four days, capped by an eight-hour championship drive home.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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