New UND Goalie T.J. Semptimphelter: “I think competition is a great thing.”

NEW NORTH DAKOTA GOALIE T.J. SEMPTIMPHELTER HELD HIS INTRODUCTORY PRESS CONFERENCE FRIDAY.

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (KVRR)–With the expected departure of last year’s number one goaltender Ludvig perrson, Nodak recived a commitment from Arizona State’s T.J. Semptimphelter earlier this month. After adding Persson through the portal a season ago, this is the second straight year that NoDak has added a goalie from the transfer portal. The Marlton, New jersey native leaves Arizona State as one of the best goaltenders in the school’s history, finishing second in program history in appearances, starts, wins, saves and goals against average.

He joins a goalie room that includes an up-incoming talent in Hobie Hedquist who shined in his appearances this past season for North Dakota.

Semptimphelter says he invites the competition.

“I think competition is a great thing,” said Semptimphelter. “Some guys like to look at it like you are constantly competing with yourself. Every morning I wake up and want to beat the version of myself that went to bed the night before. I am really excited to act sort of like a mentor and an older veteran goalie to Hobie Hedquist. I think it is a good opportunity for us to bounce ideas and learn from each other.”

Semptimphelter also knows how prestigious the Ralph Engelstad Arena is and is looking forward to playing in it.

“I think for me, there is no stage that is too big,” said Semptimphelter. “Ever since I was a little kid, you score a goal with two or three seconds left, or you make a big save… in my basement I would look around and envision a million fans cheering. I am really excited to play in that environment and I think if anything it just heightens your ability.”