Montana Tech Hockey Returns to Helena for 2026 Montana Cup
Montana Cup Returns to Helena Jan. 8–10 at Steed Arena
Montana Tech hockey will take part in the 2026 Montana Cup as the state’s premier collegiate tournament returns Jan. 8–10 at Steed Arena in Helena. The annual event brings together all four of Montana’s collegiate hockey programs for a three-day, single-elimination tournament to crown the Montana Cup champion.
Montana Tech in action (Michelle Kase)
Montana’s Top Collegiate Hockey Programs Set Competitive Field
Joining Montana Tech in the field are the University of Providence, the University of Montana and defending champion Montana State. Tournament seedings are based on current ACHA rankings, setting up a competitive bracket featuring the top collegiate clubs in the state.
Rathgeber: Montana Cup Showcases Statewide Hockey Talent
Orediggers head coach Dave Rathgeber said the Montana Cup provides a valuable opportunity to measure his team against the state’s best programs.
“There’s so much talent — current and up-and-coming — here in the state of Montana,” Rathgeber said. “It’s great to have an event that hosts the four Montana university teams. We’re excited to once again be a part of the tournament and expect to be a better competitor than last year.”
Montana Tech in a previous game vs Montana State (Michelle Kase)
Montana Tech Opens Montana Cup Play Against Defending Champion MSU
Montana Tech will open tournament play against Montana State University on Friday night, facing the Bobcats, who claimed the Montana Cup title last season. A win would advance Tech to Saturday’s championship final.
“MSU is still a championship-caliber team with a proven pedigree, regardless of their drop in the rankings,” Rathgeber said. “We expect to have a much better performance than when we hosted them earlier in the season.”
2026 Montana Cup Schedule
Thursday, Jan. 8
7 p.m. — University of Providence vs. University of Montana
Friday, Jan. 9
7 p.m. — Montana State vs. Montana Tech
Saturday, Jan. 10
7 p.m. — Championship final
Tickets are available at tickets.gallatinice.org.
