UND takes on dual role as participant, host at Frozen Four

They'll also serve as the host institution, a first for the program. "We couldn't be more excited about it," UND athletic director Bill Chaves said. "For the NCAA and the NCAA committee to take a chance on a new venue, a new place, and to have the faith in the University of North Dakota to assist Las Vegas Events in putting on a great Frozen Four, we are so grateful, and we are excited about it.

" The Hawks are running the event in conjunction with the NCAA and the local organizing committee. UND, Las Vegas Events, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and T-Mobile Arena form the local organizing committee that won the bid to host nearly seven years ago. The NCAA's role is more big-picture logistical matters, such as putting together the bracket, creating practice schedules and ensuring compliance with policy procedures.

The host institution and local organizing committee are focused on the more boots-on-the-ground tasks. Initial duties will be preparing the hotel and arena for the participating teams. When players and staff begin arriving, the Hawks hosting staff will act as concierges of sorts.

"We want to make sure that the student-athletes don't just come into a hotel, and it looks like they don't know what's going on," UND deputy athletic director Erik Martinson said. "We want the student-athletes and the fans to feel like this is the biggest show in town. " UND will also provide equipment and medical staff.