Reid Cashman, head coach of Dartmouth Men's Hockey, has been named the 2026 Spencer Penrose Award winner, recognizing him as the Division I Men's Ice Hockey Coach of the Year. Cashman is the second Dartmouth coach to win this award since its inception in 1951. Under his leadership, the Big Green had a historic season, securing 23 wins and their first ECAC Hockey Tournament Championship, alongside their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1980.

By the Numbers
  • Dartmouth won a program record of 23 games in the 2025-26 season.
  • Hayden Stavroff led the country with 29 goals and ranked sixth in points per game (1.37).
Yes, But

While Cashman's achievements are notable, the team had only 12 combined wins in his first two seasons before their remarkable turnaround. This raises questions about the sustainability of their recent success.

State of Play
  • The Big Green dominated in multiple NCAA statistical categories, placing sixth in scoring margin and scoring defense.
  • Dartmouth was nationally ranked for most of the season, highlighting their improved competitiveness.
What's Next

Cashman will be recognized at the 2026 AHCA Convention on April 29. The teamwork demonstrated this season could signal lasting changes in the program's trajectory, but maintaining the momentum will be crucial.

Bottom Line

Reid Cashman's recognition as Coach of the Year underscores a transformative season for Dartmouth Men's Hockey, but the true test will be sustaining this success in future seasons.