Stars of the Game: Nate Knoepke

PRESENTED BY

SENIOR | DEFENSEMAN | FARMINGTON, MINN.

Senior Nate Knoepke got a new start with the Omaha hockey team after beginning his college career at Minnesota.  The move has paid dividends for both player and program.

Knoepke has become a reliable presence on the Mavericks’ blue line during the last two seasons, regularly logging minutes against some of their opponents’ best lines.  His defensive prowess is bolstered by his durability.  One of just six players to appear in all 36 games last season, the native of Farmington, Minn. also chipped in a goal and six assists for seven points.  Knoepke has bolstered his credentials off the ice as an NCHC Academic All-Conference selection and an NCHC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete honoree two years running.

Entering the 2020-21, Knoepke will be one of just two elder statesmen in a defensive corps that still features many young players.  It’s safe to say that his sturdiness will be relied on extensively throughout the upcoming season.

THREE QUESTIONS FOR NATE KNOEPKE
Describe the game day environment at Baxter Arena.
There is nothing like Baxter on game day. The fans here are awesome and they bring the energy every night. The Mav Maniacs do a great job supporting all of UNO athletics and they help create a great atmosphere at Baxter.

Describe the relationship you have with your teammates.
No matter where we came from or how we got here we are a family. We all might have different interests and hobbies but at the end of the day I know that every single one of those guys will have my back no matter what.

How has your experience as a student-athlete changed you as a person?
There is a lot of responsibility that comes with being a student athlete. I am now much better at managing my time and much more responsible. The main thing you learn as a student athlete is that you are going to have to sacrifice some things to help you be the best person that you can be.