Why You Should Join the Bakken Oilers AAA Hockey Program
Why You Should Join the Bakken Oilers AAA Hockey Program
The Bakken Oilers are proud to be one of North Dakota’s oldest and most respected AAA hockey programs, rooted in the heart of North Central North Dakota. Competing across the Upper Midwest United States and the Canadian Prairies, the Oilers provide players with a unique opportunity to grow their game against elite competition—while maintaining a family-centered, community-driven approach.
🏆 A Legacy of Excellence
With an unmatched record of success — 132 State Championships, 42 NCAA commits, and 16 professional players — the Bakken Oilers have built a tradition of excellence that speaks for itself. From the first puck drop, the Oilers have been focused on more than just winning. The true mission is to help players develop their skills, character, and love for the game, while creating lifelong memories and friendships.
💪 Affordable, High-Level Hockey
Unlike many AAA programs, the Bakken Oilers are committed to keeping elite hockey affordable and accessible. The organization’s goal is simple: to provide high-level travel hockey opportunities for advancing players from North Dakota, neighboring states, and provinces—without the overwhelming financial burden often found in elite hockey.
🧢 Coaches Who Care
At the core of the Bakken Oilers is a group of passionate volunteer coaches who give their time, experience, and energy to mentor the next generation of hockey players. Over the years, the Oilers have been fortunate to be led by coaches with NCAA, ACHA, and Junior hockey experience—many of whom once wore the Oiler jersey themselves.
These coaches bring both professional insight and personal dedication, ensuring each player receives top-tier instruction and genuine mentorship.
🚀 Player Advancement
The results speak volumes.
Bakken Oilers alumni have gone on to play at the highest levels of junior and college hockey, including the NAHL, USHL, BCHL, AJHL, and SJHL.
Six alumni have played or are currently playing NCAA Division I hockey.
Two more have signed NCAA Division I commitments.
One alumnus is currently skating in the WHL.
These achievements reflect the program’s ability to prepare players not just for the next level—but for success in life, both on and off the ice.
🏒 Notable Coaches
The Bakken Oilers are proud of the caliber of coaches who have guided their teams over the years.
- Tom Phillion – Former NCAA Division I player, University of North Dakota (Coach of the 2001 Bakken Oilers)
- Jay Panzer – Former NCAA Division I player, University of North Dakota (Coach of the 2003 Bakken Oilers)
- Jeff Panzer – Former NCAA Division I player, University of North Dakota (Coach of the 2003 Bakken Oilers)
- Jarrod Olson – Former NCAA Division I player, University of North Dakota (Coach of the Bakken Oilers Girls Teams)
- Danny Hanson – Former Dubuque Fighting Saints (NAHL) and NCAA Division I player, Lake Superior State University (Coach of the 2003 Bakken Oilers)
- Wade Regier – Former Saskatoon Jr. Chiefs (SJHL) player and long-time Minot State University coach with two ACHA Division I National Championships (Coach of the 2011 & 2015 Bakken Oilers)
- Kent Kirkhammer – Former La Ronge Ice Wolves (SJHL) player and ACHA Division I standout with Minot State University (Current coach of the 2015 Bakken Oilers)
🤝 Join the Tradition
If you’re looking for a place where tradition meets opportunity, where development and community go hand in hand, and where players are challenged to reach their full potential — the Bakken Oilers AAA Hockey Program is the place for you.
Come be part of a legacy that has shaped generations of North Dakota hockey.
Join the Bakken Oilers — where champions are made, and the future of hockey is forged.