The Omaha World Herald recently contacted Mike Hastings, the first-year Gophers assistant, about the possibility of him applying for the open University of Nebraska head coach job.

“Omaha is the place where both my children were born, and it’s a place that’s near and dear to my heart,” Hastings said, according to the World Herald. “But right now, I’m focused on my responsibilities at the University of Minnesota.”

Those skeptical whether Hastings will stay have two words in his quote to ponder: “right now.”

Trev Alberts, the new AD at UNO, was supposed to meet for the first time with the search committee on Wednesday. He said he wants to hire a coach that can win a national championship. He also said that if a candidate is identified who can do that, the school would approach him.

I expect Hastings’ phone will ring. He was unbelievably successful as the coach and GM of the Omaha Lancers in the USHL. Not one losing season in 14 years. He bowed out with a Clark Cup championship, meaning his team won the USHL playoffs.

And the Mavericks have a one-third full arena they want to fill. Of, course, they will call Hastings if he does not apply. Just to gauge his level of interest if for no other reason.

(P.S. Trev, I have Mike Hastings’ cell number for you. But you have to call me first when you hire someone, OK?)

Also Kevin Pates, who covers UMD hockey for the Duluth News-Tribune, said Bruce McLeod, the commish of the WCHA, may be in Omaha this week looking for a 12th team for his conference.

No word on whether McCleod was in disguise, wearing shades and a trench coat, or what kind of enticements he was offering the Mavericks to leave the CCHA.

UMD ADDS GOALIE

 Goalie Aaron Crandall is going to walk-on at UMD. Crandall, of Lakeville, played high school hockey at St. Thomas Academy and, the last two years, had been on USHL teams in Green Bay and Des Moines.

He said UMD coach Scott Sandelin promised him a chance to compete for playing time with Kenny Reiter and Brady Hjelle.

The ‘Dogs have a big hole in their nets after junior Alex Stalock signed a pro contract.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 20th, 2009 at 9:54 pm and is filed under Gophers men's hockey. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.