At the beginning of next year, the country of Poland will host the World University Games, with the United States sending college-aged students to represent the country in six specialized sports. Iowa State’s own Al Murdoch has been appointed as the head coach of an all-star hockey team that will represent the United States at the games. “I’m very honored to have been selected,” said Murdoch, who is known worldwide for his coaching abilities. The ISU players are also very excited to know that their coach was selected for such a high honor. “I think Coach Murdoch’s reputation speaks for itself,” said junior defenseman Jason McCollum. “I think it’s just another thing he can add on.” “It’s something that he deserves,” junior forward Glenn Detulleo said. “I think that all the guys on the team are proud that our coach is going to be coaching the national team at the University Games.” Although Murdoch will miss two weekend series, including the league tournament, the players are confident that they won’t miss a beat. “Usually by that time of the year, we’ve been very well coached,” sophomore forward Mike Gilbertson said. “We have a lot of returning players this year. Plus, we have three assistant coaches, so I think we will have plenty of other people to lead the team.” Over the next couple of months, selections for the team will be offered by coaches throughout the country. In the end, a roster of about 20 players will be set to represent the United States. Assisting Coach Murdoch will be Brian Wilkie, from Minot State University, and Chad Cassell, from the University of Illinois. The World University Games will be held Feb. 7-17 in Zakopane, Poland.