FARGO, ND – In a moment that’s quickly circulating among hockey fans, 18-year-classic Slovakian goaltender Samuel Hrenák of the Fargo Force delivered a highlight-reel play Friday night, scoring a full-ice goal against the Dubuque Fighting Saints in a 6-2 victory. The improbable tally, coming with just four minutes remaining in the third period, wasn’t just a novelty; it punctuated a strong performance by Hrenák, who stopped 21 shots in the win.
Hrenák was named the second star of the game, and a standout performer for the entire USHL on Friday night. The sequence unfolded during a Dubuque power play when Hrenák secured the puck behind his own net and launched a shot that traveled the length of the ice into the empty net. “I saw I had a chance to shoot, nobody was near me, so I just tried it,” Hrenák told inforum.com.
VIDEO: Samuel Hrenák’s Goal
The goal was a welcome boost for Hrenák, who had been coming off a 5-1 loss to Sioux City earlier in the week. He confirmed after the game against Dubuque that it was his first-ever goal in competitive hockey. “I’ve never had the opportunity to try that before. It was my first attempt at an empty net, and somehow it went in,” Hrenák said, as reported by inforum.com. Fargo Force goaltending coach Hank Johnson praised Hrenák’s composure and skill, stating, “He was really impressive. He has a great head on his shoulders and is a really easy kid to root for.”
Hrenák’s journey to Fargo began in February, after spending the early part of the season with Dukla Trenčín and Slovakia’s U18 national team program. He’s quickly become a key player for the Force. “Sammy is one of my favorite teammates,” said Fargo Force defenseman Garrett Lindberg. “He’s a great kid, and it’s nice to notice him get rewarded like that. A goal by a goalie is just super ‘cool.’”
The USHL, known as a premier developmental league for aspiring NHL players, has seen its share of memorable moments, but a goaltender scoring a goal remains a rare feat. Hrenák’s accomplishment adds another layer of excitement to what’s shaping up to be a pivotal season for the young Slovakian.
Beyond Hrenák’s remarkable goal, several other players had strong performances Friday night. Timothy Kazda of the Chicago Steel recorded three assists and a plus-one rating, earning him the third star of the game in Chicago’s 6-4 win over Lincoln. Samuel Murin also shone, scoring two goals for an opposing team, earning him the second star in his team’s game. Adam Beluško, another Slovakian player, contributed an assist and a plus-one rating, securing the third star in a game where Muskegon fell to USA Hockey 5-4 in overtime.
Hrenák, currently listed as a prospect eligible for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, is ranked #10 among European goalies by NHL Central Scouting. He stands at 6’3” and weighs 183 lbs, and catches with his left hand. His arrival in Fargo has been seamless, and his impact on the team is already evident.
The Fargo Force (25-16-8 as of March 29, 2026) currently hold a playoff position in the USHL’s Western Conference. Hrenák’s contributions are becoming increasingly vital as the team pushes towards the postseason. The USHL season continues with a fast-approaching playoff push, and Hrenák’s performance will undoubtedly be a key factor in the Force’s success.
For Hrenák, the goal is more than just a highlight; it’s a testament to his skill, composure, and willingness to seize an opportunity. It’s a moment he, and the Fargo Force, won’t soon forget.
What’s Next: The Fargo Force will face the Sioux Falls Stampede on April 5th at the Scheels Arena in Fargo, North Dakota. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 PM CT (12:05 AM UTC).
Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the USHL and the journey of Samuel Hrenák as he pursues his hockey dreams.
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