Sergeant at the Billings Police Department and one of Matt’s longtime mentors, Justin led the Drug Task Force during what Matt still calls the best time in his police career—thanks to the culture Justin built. Whether it’s "leading" raft trips on his vessel, “Boat Do No Wrong,” trading hunting stories, or sharing a “fine dining” experience at Outback Steakhouse, Justin isn’t exactly a talker so much as a storyteller. Leigh met Justin only once, but she immediately knew he was the perfect person to marry them. (We may just have to cut him off before we all freeze in the January cold!)

What started as two jungle cats sizing each other up on the ice quickly turned into a lifelong friendship built on laughs, loyalty, and questionable dance moves. Bonded by the song “I’ve Got 5 On It,” Zoo and Matt have since graced countless dance floors (often with props) and even claim to have been offered a residency at a Vegas piano bar. Reliable, honest, and unmatched in “first night” guy’s trip performances, Zoo remains one of a kind. The debate continues—does D1 hockey really outrank D3?

Known each other since high school, Cory was the reason Matt became a cop—mostly because he figured, “If Cory can do it, I definitely can.” A fellow Diggers slow-pitch softball player, he’s been part of countless adventures, from river trips and pheasant hunts in South Dakota to a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Argentina. Cory’s also known for his famous travel quote: “Some people just don’t know how to travel.” A skilled fish-hooker, dog lover, and the only person still proudly rooting for the Miami Dolphins, his loyalty runs deep—both to his team and his friends.

A former neighbor turned hunting partner, Tom is the kind of guy everyone wants in their camp—or their corner. A true hunting junkie with a grill always fired up, he’s known for his BBQ skills, smoked masterpieces, and steady reliability. Trustworthy, loyal, and always ready for the next early morning hunt, Tom’s the definition of a friend you can count on—whether it’s in the woods or around the smoker.

High school friend and fellow Diggers slow-pitch softball teammate, Mike’s athletic background shows up everywhere—from college football to being the only person at the gym using perfect running form while blaring 2Pac. A fellow Detroit Lions fan since the paper bag days, he’s still figuring out how to react when they actually win. Mike is also the award-winning “X” author of his weekly message, “Dear Dan,” dedicated to Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell. A fishing maniac, soup connoisseur, and dedicated dog lover who’s likely funded a new wing at his vet’s office in Billings, Mike joined Matt and Cory on their trip of a lifetime to Argentina—an adventure that perfectly sums up his love for travel, food, and stories worth retelling. He’ll have no problem telling you exactly why your stance is wrong—and backing it up.

Hass was the bridge that brought Matt back into the Billings hockey scene after college—first through men’s league, then by coaching junior hockey together. A devoted family man and a sharp businessman (pyramid scheme or not), Hass brings drive, sincerity, and a big heart to everything he does. On the ice, he’s the “Little Engine That Could,” and off it, he’s the friend you can always count on—steady, genuine, and all-in.