MINOT, N.D. (KMOT) – The U.S. Men’s National Sled Hockey Team is in Minot, holding tryouts for the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Italy. There are more than 30 players from across the country fighting for 17 roster spots and doing so in the head coach’s home state.
Fresh off another world championship this summer, Team USA is gearing up to chase more gold.
“For the first time, we gave our players the entire summer off, which I think has been good for everyone just to have a mental break and even a physical break. Everyone is so excited to be back,” said head coach David Hoff.
David Hoff of Bottineau has been the head coach of the team since the 2018-19 season, and is preparing for his second Paralympics at the head of the bench.
“The first time I got to go as an assistant coach in 2018. We were in the opening ceremonies, and I remember them saying, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, the United States of America.’ I remember thinking, ‘How’d I get here?’ From coaching the high school team in Bottineau. My day job is I’m a high school math teacher,” said Hoff.
Hoff has seen the growth of the sport on the global stage.
“The game is such a faster pace right now. I’m proud to be a part of that. We try to change lines much more like what you would see in an able-bodied game. And what they’re doing with the puck right out there, it’s just really, really incredible,” said Hoff.
Beyond the trophies and medals, it’s about making an impact locally.
“Maybe it’s a way that I can bring the adaptive sport at a really high level in North Dakota, where people get the chance to see what people with disabilities can do. It’s not just leaving something on the hockey side,” said Hoff.
Fellow Bottineau native Corey Gorder is an assistant coach.
Team tryouts continue through Saturday with practices in the morning and scrimmages in the afternoon/evening at Maysa Arena. The 2026 Paralympic Winter Games open on March 6.
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