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Episode 214

Jared Erickson

Episode 214 - Jared Erickson

Oklahoma State men's hockey head coach Jared Erickson joins the show to talk about the rise of OSU hockey, the rapid growth of the ACHA, recruiting players from across North America, and the changing landscape of college hockey.

Show Notes

00:00

Welcome & Oklahoma State Hockey

Adam introduces OSU head coach Jared Erickson and reflects on how far the Oklahoma State hockey program has come since his college days.

03:11

Jared’s Hockey Story

Jared shares how he discovered hockey in Wisconsin and his path through AAA, junior hockey, Iowa State, and UNLV.

08:43

The Growth of ACHA Hockey

Jared and Adam discuss how ACHA hockey has evolved from traditional club hockey into a highly competitive collegiate option.

14:11

CHL Rule Changes & College Hockey

Jared explains how changes allowing major-junior players to compete in NCAA hockey are increasing the talent pool and creating ripple effects throughout the ACHA.

18:18

Choosing College for Hockey and Education

Players are increasingly choosing universities based on both academics and the strength of their ACHA hockey programs.

23:16

Jared’s Move Into Coaching

Jared explains how staying involved with UNLV eventually led to an unexpected opportunity to become Oklahoma State’s head coach.

26:19

Building the OSU Program

Jared discusses the vision behind Oklahoma State hockey, growing university and community support, recruiting momentum, and increased interest in the program.

28:10

Players as Recruiters

Current players have become some of OSU’s strongest recruiting tools, particularly as players from Canada discover the college experience available in Stillwater.

31:46

Playing Outdoors at Penn State

Jared recalls OSU’s memorable trip to Penn State, where the team played part of a game outdoors at Beaver Stadium before finishing inside Pegula Ice Arena.

33:38

Bedlam Hockey at Boone Pickens Stadium

OSU and OU are scheduled to play an outdoor Bedlam hockey game at Boone Pickens Stadium on January 30, 2027, potentially creating a major showcase for hockey in Oklahoma.

36:46

Growing Hockey in Oklahoma

Jared talks about the crowds Bedlam hockey has already drawn and how the outdoor event could introduce even more people to the sport.

39:39

Could Stillwater Get an Ice Rink?

Jared acknowledges there has been some discussion about ice in Stillwater while explaining the team's current late-night travel to Tulsa for practices.

42:47

Coach Skylar & the OSU Staff

Jared highlights longtime assistant Skylar and the important role he plays as a coach, mentor, and resource for the players.

46:45

The Shout Out

Jared recognizes Skylar, while Adam honors Ryan Califf and the people who planted the early seeds of OSU hockey long before its current growth.

50:48

Joel Gilstrap & Staying Involved

Adam and Jared recognize Joel Gilstrap for his longtime commitment to hockey and his continued involvement with Oklahoma State's program.

52:36

Final Thoughts

Jared reflects on the opportunity to coach OSU and the possibilities ahead for the program.

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