Nick Oliver, Head Coach of USHL’s Fargo Force, stops in for episode 200 of the Glass and Out Podcast.

At the time of this recording, Oliver had the Force sitting atop the USHL standings, but what is most impressive about his story is the rapid rise he’s made up the coaching ladder since completing his collegiate career at St. Cloud State University.

Despite no prior experience, the Wannaska, Minnesota native got his coaching career started when he was invited to join the Sioux Falls Stampede’s staff as an Assistant Coach and Director of Scouting.

Three seasons later, he returned to St Cloud, where he was captain his senior season, to join the staff of current Head Coach Brett Larson. During his three seasons at St. Cloud, Oliver assisted the program in reaching three straight NCAA tournament berths and one NCHC regular season Conference Championship.

He then returned to another of his former teams, the Fargo Force, where he has been the Head Coach since May of 2022.

It’s worth noting that throughout his career, Oliver has been surrounded by accomplished coaches. It goes without saying that young coaches can do themselves a great service by focusing on aligning themselves with coaches who have a broad range of experiences.

Hear Oliver discuss how his father (a former coach) helped guide his career, the various mentors who have influenced him, and how he’s used the Christmas break to prepare his team for the upcoming playoffs.