Over the years, the Omaha Mavericks have built a reputation for developing elite hockey players. While many college programs draw largely from North American talent, UNO Hockey has established itself as a destination for international players, helping them adjust to life in the U.S. and excel on the ice. From Europe to Canada, the Mavericks’ roster has become a diverse blend of talent, each bringing their own unique style and strengths to the program.
A Global Recruiting Network
UNO’s international success can be traced back to a commitment to broadening their recruiting scope. The coaching staff, led by Head Coach Mike Gabinet, has developed a network that reaches beyond traditional recruiting pools, enabling them to tap into markets where other programs might not venture. By fostering relationships with junior leagues across Europe and Canada, UNO has identified and attracted top players eager to showcase their skills on a bigger stage.
“We’ve always believed in finding the best talent, wherever it might be,” said Coach Gabinet. “The key is to create an environment where these players feel supported both on and off the ice. That’s what makes our program special”.
Success Stories from Slovakia to Sweden
One of the standout international players on the current roster is Simon Latkoczy, a goaltender from Trencin, Slovakia. Latkoczy’s journey to Omaha wasn’t a straight line; at one point, he even considered stepping away from hockey. After stints in the USHL, he committed to Omaha, where he quickly made a name for himself. During the 2023-24 season, he posted a .913 save percentage and helped lead the Mavericks to their fifth NCAA tournament appearance.
Reflecting on his decision to come to Omaha, Latkoczy said, “(Omaha) was probably the best decision I could make in the end when I would look back at it. The fun of hockey came back. I think that the conditions that I have here really allowed me to develop, and I still can aim for the (NHL)”.
Latkoczy isn’t the only European making waves at UNO. Freshman defenseman Kevin Reidler from Gavle, Sweden, joined the Mavericks after a stellar season in the USHL, where he was named to the All-USHL Second Team. Standing at 6-foot-6, Reidler’s size and skill caught the attention of NHL scouts, and the Ottawa Senators drafted him in the 2022 draft. For players like Reidler, the opportunity to play in Omaha has helped them make the transition to North American hockey while still setting their sights on a professional career.
Adjusting to a New Culture, On and Off the Ice
Moving to a new country to pursue a sport can be daunting, but UNO’s support system ensures international players feel at home. From the coaching staff to the facilities at Baxter Arena, everything is designed to help players focus on developing their game while also adjusting to a new culture. For many, this is their first time living away from home, and UNO provides an environment where they can thrive, not just survive.
Head Coach Gabinet emphasized the importance of this holistic approach, noting, “You can’t just think about what happens on the ice. We have to make sure these players are comfortable in every aspect of their lives. That’s why we work closely with them to ensure they have everything they need, from academic support to language assistance if necessary. It’s about building a family”.
The Draw of Baxter Arena
Another major selling point for international recruits is the world-class facilities at Baxter Arena. With two ice sheets, modern locker rooms, and training amenities that rival those found in professional rinks, Baxter Arena has everything a player needs to develop their skills. This has been a crucial factor in attracting talent from around the world, providing a smooth transition to the demands of college hockey.
“Baxter Arena has been such an unbelievable resource for us. First off, having it connected to Aksarben Village where it’s walking distance for most of our players, it’s huge for their time-management and lets them spend more time at the rink,” said Gabinet. “We’ve seen how it’s helped not just in games, but in the daily grind of training and development” .
UNO’s International Alumni in the Pros
The Mavericks’ track record of success with international players doesn’t end at graduation. Many have gone on to play professionally, either in North America or back in their home countries. One of the most notable names is Andrej Sustr, a defenseman from Czechia who played for Omaha before embarking on a long NHL career with teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and Anaheim Ducks.
Over the years, Omaha has become a stepping stone for international players looking to reach the next level. The combination of a welcoming environment, top-tier facilities, and a commitment to individual development has made UNO an attractive destination for players from all over the globe.
A Growing Reputation on the Global Stage
As UNO continues to build its brand as a premier destination for international talent, the Mavericks’ coaching staff shows no signs of slowing down. With scouts regularly attending tournaments and leagues in Europe, Canada, and beyond, UNO is positioning itself as a leader in developing well-rounded, skilled hockey players who can compete on the world stage.
Players like Latkoczy and Reidler represent the future of UNO hockey: talented, driven athletes from around the globe who see Omaha not just as a stepping stone but as a home away from home where they can achieve their dreams.
