Arkansas Hockey Gears Up For Season Opener With Expanded Program

The University of Arkansas Razorback Hockey Club is excited to announce the start of the 2024-2025 hockey season with its season-opening games this Thursday and Friday evenings versus the University of Oklahoma at the Jones Center in Springdale, AR. This season marks a significant milestone for the program as it expands from one Division III (D3) team to include both a Division II (D2) and D3 team, a testament to the growth and success of Razorback Hockey.

A New Era for Razorback Hockey: D2 and D3 Teams

After years of competing at the D3 level, the Razorback Hockey Club is proud to introduce a D2 team into the fold for the 2024-2025 season. This expansion allows the program to compete at a higher level within the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) while continuing to build on its strong tradition at the D3 level.

Head Coach Keller Sims, returning for his eighth season, will lead the D2 team into its inaugural season. “We’re excited about this new challenge and the opportunity to compete against some of the best teams in the country,” said Sims. “With the talent we’ve brought in and the energy in camp, we’re poised for a strong start.”

The D3 team, under new Head Coach Greg Betzold, remains committed to its goal of competing for national championships. Coach Betzold brings a wealth of experience from his playing career in the OHL and ECHL, and he is eager to guide the Razorbacks through another successful season. “Our program’s growth reflects the dedication of our players, coaches, and supporters. We’re ready to make this season one to remember,” said Betzold.

Season Highlights and Opponents

The Razorbacks are set to face a challenging schedule that includes matchups against top-tier programs such as the University of Oklahoma, University of Missouri, University of Nebraska, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Kansas, among others. Fans can expect high-energy games filled with the fast-paced action that Razorback Hockey is known for.

Home Games at the Jones Center

All home games will be played at the Jones Center in Springdale, where the Razorbacks enjoy a strong home-ice advantage thanks to their passionate fan base. The team has a history of drawing large crowds, creating an electric atmosphere that energizes the players and makes the Jones Center a fortress for Razorback Hockey.

Watch Live on YouTube

For fans unable to attend in person, all home games will be streamed live on the Razorback Hockey Club’s official YouTube channel, ensuring that supporters can follow the action from anywhere.

About Razorback Hockey Club

Established in 2007, the Razorback Hockey Club has become a cornerstone of the University of Arkansas’s club sports scene. Competing in the ACHA, the program has earned a reputation for excellence, both on and off the ice. With a focus on developing student-athletes and engaging with the local community, the Razorbacks have built a strong following and are a source of pride for the university.

For more information about the Razorback Hockey Club, the upcoming schedule, and how to purchase tickets, follow the team on social media.