Last Updated on November 13, 2026 by Bernald Sanders
Jake Oettinger is an American professional ice hockey goaltender who plays for the Dallas Stars in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on December 18, 1998, in Lakeville, Minnesota, Oettinger has established himself as one of the league’s prominent starting goaltenders.
Beyond his professional career, Oettinger is a husband and father. He is married to Kennedi Schumacher, his longtime partner and childhood friend. The couple celebrated their wedding on June 29, 2024, in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and welcomed their first child, a son named Rhodes, in November 2025.
His parents are Chris Oettinger and Kateri Oettinger. His publicly documented siblings include Jackson, Victoria, Kendall, and Thomas Oettinger, several of whom have shared important moments in his hockey career.
Here is a closer look at Jake Oettinger’s wife, children, parents, siblings, and family background.
Jake Oettinger’s Wife: Who Is Kennedi Schumacher?
Jake Oettinger is married to Kennedi Schumacher, also known as Kennedi Oettinger following their marriage.
Kennedi and Jake grew up knowing each other in Minnesota, long before Oettinger became an established NHL player.
In an interview published by Brides magazine, Kennedi explained that they belonged to the same group of friends during childhood.
Although they had known each other for more than a decade, their romantic relationship began in 2019.
The couple continued dating as Oettinger established himself with the Dallas Stars.
Kennedi has accompanied him through important professional milestones, including contract negotiations, Stanley Cup Playoff appearances, and international hockey competitions.
She has also been involved in charitable initiatives alongside her husband.
While Kennedi has participated in occasional interviews, detailed information about her present occupation and educational background has not been consistently established through authoritative reporting.
How Did Jake Oettinger Meet His Wife?
Jake Oettinger and Kennedi Schumacher knew each other while growing up in Minnesota.
According to their wedding interview with Brides magazine, they shared a friendship group for many years before becoming a couple.
They began dating in 2019, when Oettinger was transitioning from college hockey to his professional career.
The friendship eventually developed into a long-term relationship.
By 2023, they had become engaged and were preparing for their wedding.
When Did Jake Oettinger Get Married?
Jake Oettinger married Kennedi Schumacher on June 29, 2024.
The ceremony took place at Nobu Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
According to Brides magazine, the wedding was attended by 124 relatives, friends, and hockey teammates.
The couple chose a minimalist wedding design featuring neutral colors, white flowers, and an oceanfront ceremony setting.
They had previously visited the resort and decided it would be an ideal location for their wedding.
After the celebration, the newlyweds traveled to Italy for their honeymoon.
Jake Oettinger’s Engagement to Kennedi
Before their marriage, Oettinger proposed to Kennedi during a vacation at Amangiri, a luxury resort in Utah.
The engagement took place approximately one year before their June 2024 wedding.
According to Kennedi’s interview with Brides, the couple had spent more than a decade as friends and approximately four years in a romantic relationship before becoming engaged.
The proposal marked an important milestone in their relationship.
Jake Oettinger’s Younger Brother Was His Best Man
One of the most memorable details from the wedding was Oettinger’s decision to choose his younger brother, Thomas, as his best man.
Thomas was approximately 10 years old during the celebration.
Despite his young age, he delivered a speech during the wedding reception.
Kennedi later praised his performance in her interview with Brides.
The decision demonstrated the close relationship between Jake and his much younger brother.
Oettinger also included a sentimental tribute to his mother by carrying a pocket square made from the lace of her wedding dress.
These personal details helped make the celebration especially meaningful for his family.
Jake Oettinger’s Children: Meet His Son Rhodes
Jake Oettinger and Kennedi Schumacher have one publicly confirmed child, a son named Rhodes Oettinger.
Rhodes was born in November 2025.
His birth was confirmed through interviews published by D Magazine, the Minnesota Star Tribune, and the NHL Players’ Association.
The arrival of their son marked an important new chapter in the couple’s relationship.
Oettinger has spoken publicly about how fatherhood has changed his outlook on professional hockey and life away from the rink.
Who Is Rhodes Oettinger?
Rhodes Oettinger is the first publicly confirmed child of Jake and Kennedi Oettinger.
He was born in November 2025, shortly before his father represented the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
In February 2026, D Magazine reported that Rhodes would accompany his family to Italy during the Olympic tournament.
Oettinger expressed excitement about having his young son experience the event with his family, even though Rhodes was too young to remember it.
He hoped that photographs and other keepsakes would allow his son to appreciate the experience when he grew older.
The exact birth date of Rhodes has not been reliably established in the major public sources reviewed.
How Has Fatherhood Changed Jake Oettinger?
Oettinger has explained that becoming a father helped him develop a different perspective on the pressures of professional hockey.
In February 2026, he told reporters that spending time with his son made it easier to separate his performances on the ice from his personal life.
Regardless of whether Dallas won or lost, Rhodes remained an important source of happiness at home.
Oettinger also said fatherhood had helped him become more patient and reflective.
The experience gave him another reason to appreciate the support provided by Kennedi and his extended family.
Rhodes Oettinger at the 2026 Winter Olympics
During the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, Rhodes became part of a memorable family experience.
According to a February 16, 2026, article from the NHL Players’ Association, Oettinger received encouraging messages from his relatives when he arrived at the Olympic Village.
One message was written on behalf of his infant son, with assistance from Kennedi.
Oettinger joked about the impressive writing abilities of his three-month-old baby.
He later explained that the messages reminded him of the sacrifices his family had made throughout his hockey career.
The United States went on to win the men’s ice hockey gold medal, making the occasion particularly memorable for the family.
Jake Oettinger’s Parents
Jake Oettinger’s parents are Chris Oettinger and Kateri Oettinger.
Their names are confirmed by Team USA and Boston University’s official athletics biography.
Both parents played important roles in his childhood, supporting his development from youth hockey in Minnesota to the NHL.
Jake Oettinger’s Father: Chris Oettinger
Chris Oettinger is Jake Oettinger’s father and one of his most important supporters.
He encouraged Jake’s involvement in hockey from a young age.
According to a June 2017 NHL interview, Chris had played soccer as a goalkeeper during his younger years.
Jake suggested that his father’s experience might have contributed to his own comfort playing a position that requires concentration and quick reactions.
Chris continued supporting Jake as he developed through youth hockey in Lakeville, Minnesota.
He also helped his son evaluate opportunities to pursue higher levels of competition.
How Chris Oettinger Influenced Jake’s Career
One particularly important decision came in 2014, when Jake received an opportunity to join USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program.
The program required him to leave Minnesota and move to Michigan as a teenager.
In an interview with The Hockey News, Oettinger recalled discussing the opportunity with his father.
Chris encouraged him to consider which development path would give him the strongest chance of reaching the NHL.
Jake eventually decided to join the program.
The move became an important step toward his professional career.
Chris has also maintained regular communication with his son during the NHL season.
In September 2020, Jake explained in an NHL.com blog that he spoke with his father almost every day.
Their conversations frequently involved hockey, family activities, and their shared interest in golf.
Chris Oettinger and His Son’s Love of Golf
Golf has become another important connection between Jake and his father.
During a February 2026 interview with D Magazine, Chris discussed how playing golf together created opportunities for meaningful conversations.
He emphasized that he cared about Jake as a person rather than judging him entirely by his hockey performances.
Chris also reflected on the years the family had spent traveling to games, practices, and tournaments.
Although those commitments required significant sacrifices, he expressed appreciation for being part of his son’s journey.
Jake Oettinger’s Mother: Kateri Oettinger
Kateri Oettinger is Jake Oettinger’s mother.
Her name is confirmed in official biographies published by Team USA and Boston University.
Kateri attended the University of Minnesota and became a supporter of the university’s men’s hockey program.
According to The Hockey News, she held season tickets to Minnesota Golden Gophers hockey games.
Jake regularly attended those games during childhood, an experience that strengthened his enthusiasm for the sport.
He initially hoped to attend the University of Minnesota and play for the Golden Gophers.
However, he eventually joined Boston University, where he continued developing into a leading college goaltender.
Kateri Oettinger’s Role in Jake’s Hockey Journey
Kateri supported her son’s development throughout his childhood and college career.
She regularly attended hockey events and helped make the family travel arrangements necessary for youth competition.
Her involvement in Minnesota college hockey also helped Jake become familiar with high-level competitive play from an early age.
During his June 2024 wedding, Oettinger paid tribute to his mother by incorporating material from her wedding dress into his own outfit.
The gesture reflected the importance of their relationship during another major family milestone.
Jake Oettinger’s Siblings: Meet His Brothers and Sisters
Jake Oettinger has publicly mentioned four siblings: Jackson, Victoria, Kendall, and Thomas.
In a first-person NHL Draft diary published on June 24, 2017, he identified Jackson and Victoria as siblings who joined him in Chicago during the NHL Entry Draft.
He also mentioned his two younger siblings, Kendall and Thomas.
In a later NHL.com blog published in September 2020, he specifically described Kendall as his younger sister and Thomas as his younger brother.
1. Jackson Oettinger – Jake Oettinger’s Brother
Jackson Oettinger is one of Jake Oettinger’s brothers.
Jake mentioned Jackson in his June 2017 NHL Draft diary.
According to the diary, Jackson traveled to Chicago to be with Jake and other family members during the draft.
Oettinger described their relationship as close.
Although Jackson’s identity is confirmed through Jake’s own account, detailed information about his current occupation and personal life has not been independently established in major hockey reporting.
2. Victoria Oettinger – Jake Oettinger’s Sister
Victoria Oettinger is one of Jake Oettinger’s sisters.
Her name appears in the same June 2017 NHL Draft diary.
Victoria joined Jackson and other family members in Chicago while Jake prepared for the first round of the draft.
Her attendance made the occasion more meaningful for her brother.
Victoria has maintained a relatively private public profile, and details about her current personal and professional activities remain limited.
3. Kendall Oettinger – Jake Oettinger’s Younger Sister
Kendall Oettinger is Jake Oettinger’s younger sister.
Her relationship to the Dallas Stars goaltender is confirmed in a September 2020 blog published by NHL.com.
During the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jake explained that he regularly communicated with Kendall and his brother Thomas through video calls.
Because the NHL playoffs were taking place in a restricted environment, he was unable to spend time with his family in person.
Nevertheless, the video calls helped him remain connected with his younger siblings.
Kendall has generally remained outside public sports reporting, and reliable information about her current activities is limited.
4. Thomas Oettinger – Jake Oettinger’s Younger Brother
Thomas Oettinger is Jake Oettinger’s youngest publicly identified brother.
He is considerably younger than Jake, but the two maintain a close relationship.
In September 2020, Jake discussed how Thomas had begun playing hockey and occasionally practiced as a goaltender.
Jake enjoyed watching his brother learn the sport and recognized some of his own goaltending movements in Thomas’s play.
Over time, their relationship continued developing despite Jake’s demanding professional schedule.
Thomas Oettinger Attended the 2024 NHL All-Star Game
One of the brothers’ most memorable experiences came in February 2024.
Jake invited Thomas to join him at the NHL All-Star Weekend in Toronto, Canada.
According to D Magazine, the trip became one of Jake’s favorite parts of the event.
The brothers spent time together away from the rink and participated in the All-Star celebrations.
Jake explained that he valued opportunities to share his professional experiences with Thomas.
Later that year, Thomas served as the best man at Jake’s wedding to Kennedi Schumacher.
The two events demonstrated their close relationship despite their considerable age difference.
Jake Oettinger’s Family Background and Childhood
Jake Oettinger was born on December 18, 1998, in Lakeville, Minnesota, United States.
He grew up in a region where ice hockey was an important part of local sporting culture.
His family regularly attended hockey games, including University of Minnesota Golden Gophers matches.
Oettinger initially played different positions before concentrating on goaltending.
According to USA Hockey, he first tried playing goalie at approximately nine years old.
For several years, he alternated between playing defense and goaltender.
By approximately age 12, he decided to concentrate on stopping pucks.
His performances eventually attracted attention from high-level youth hockey programs.
He played for Lakeville North High School before joining the United States National Team Development Program in Michigan.
Jake Oettinger’s College Hockey Career
After two seasons with USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, Oettinger enrolled at Boston University.
He began his NCAA career during the 2016–17 season.
As a freshman, he established himself as one of the program’s leading goaltenders.
His performances helped him earn recognition among NHL scouts.
During the 2017 NHL Entry Draft, the Dallas Stars selected Oettinger with the 26th overall pick in the first round.
He continued playing for Boston University after being drafted.
During the 2017–18 season, he helped the Terriers win the Hockey East championship.
He also received the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award following an impressive performance in the championship game.
Oettinger completed three seasons of college hockey before signing his first professional contract with Dallas in March 2019.
Jake Oettinger’s NHL Career
Oettinger began his professional career in the Dallas Stars organization, developing with the Texas Stars in the American Hockey League.
He made his NHL debut on September 8, 2020, during the Western Conference Final against the Vegas Golden Knights.
He subsequently became an increasingly important part of the Stars’ goaltending group.
During the 2021–22 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Oettinger attracted widespread attention for his performances against the Calgary Flames.
He made 64 saves during Game 7 of the first-round series, although Dallas lost in overtime.
His performances helped establish his reputation as a goaltender capable of competing under significant pressure.
He later became Dallas’ regular starting goaltender and helped the team reach several Western Conference Finals.
In February 2024, he participated in his first NHL All-Star Game.
On October 17, 2024, Dallas signed him to an eight-year contract extension worth $66 million.
During the 2025–26 regular season, he recorded 35 wins, a 2.59 goals-against average, and four shutouts in 54 games.
He remained the Stars’ starting goaltender entering the 2026–27 campaign.
Jake Oettinger’s Family Celebrates His 2026 Olympic Gold Medal
One of the most important achievements in Oettinger’s career came during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy.
He was selected as one of the goaltenders on the United States men’s hockey team.
Team USA eventually won the Olympic gold medal.
Although Oettinger did not appear in a game during the tournament, he was a member of the gold-medal-winning roster.
The experience was particularly meaningful because his wife, Kennedi, and their infant son, Rhodes, joined the family celebrations in Italy.
Other relatives also traveled to support him.
In an interview with the NHL Players’ Association, Oettinger expressed appreciation for the sacrifices his family had made throughout his career.
He emphasized that Kennedi and his relatives had supported him through both successful and difficult moments.
Jake and Kennedi Oettinger’s Charity Work
Jake Oettinger and his wife have also participated in community programs supporting children and families.
In April 2026, the Dallas Stars nominated Oettinger for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy, which recognizes leadership and humanitarian contributions.
The nomination highlighted his work through Jake’s HopeCrew, an initiative supporting children facing serious medical challenges and their families.
Through the program, families have attended Stars games and participated in special events with Oettinger.
The Stars also reported that Jake and Kennedi helped provide holiday gifts and financial support for families connected to HopeKids.
Their involvement demonstrates their commitment to community activities beyond professional hockey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jake Oettinger’s Family
Who is Jake Oettinger’s wife?
Jake Oettinger’s wife is Kennedi Schumacher, his longtime friend and partner. They married on June 29, 2024, in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
How did Jake Oettinger meet his wife?
Jake and Kennedi grew up in the same Minnesota friendship group. They had known each other for years before beginning their romantic relationship in 2019.
When did Jake Oettinger get married?
Jake Oettinger married Kennedi Schumacher on June 29, 2024, at Nobu Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Does Jake Oettinger have children?
Yes. Jake Oettinger and Kennedi have one publicly confirmed child, a son named Rhodes.
When was Jake Oettinger’s son born?
Rhodes Oettinger was born in November 2025.
Who are Jake Oettinger’s parents?
Jake Oettinger’s parents are Chris Oettinger and Kateri Oettinger, as confirmed by Boston University and Team USA.
Who is Jake Oettinger’s father?
Jake Oettinger’s father is Chris Oettinger, who supported his hockey development and encouraged him to join USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program.
Who is Jake Oettinger’s mother?
Jake Oettinger’s mother is Kateri Oettinger, a University of Minnesota alumna who regularly took him to Golden Gophers hockey games during childhood.
Does Jake Oettinger have siblings?
Yes. Jake has publicly identified four siblings named Jackson, Victoria, Kendall, and Thomas.
Who is Jake Oettinger’s younger brother?
Jake Oettinger’s younger brother is Thomas Oettinger. Thomas attended the 2024 NHL All-Star Game with Jake and served as his best man at his wedding.
Who are Jake Oettinger’s sisters?
Jake Oettinger has identified sisters named Victoria and Kendall in his public NHL interviews and writings.
Who is Jake Oettinger’s brother Jackson?
Jackson Oettinger is one of Jake’s brothers. Jake mentioned him in his June 2017 NHL Draft diary as a family member who joined him in Chicago.
Was Jake Oettinger’s brother his best man?
Yes. His younger brother, Thomas, served as best man at Jake and Kennedi’s June 2024 wedding in Mexico.
Where is Jake Oettinger’s family from?
Jake Oettinger grew up in Lakeville, Minnesota, where he began playing competitive hockey.
Did Jake Oettinger win an Olympic gold medal?
Yes. Oettinger was a member of the United States men’s ice hockey team that won gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics. He did not appear in a game during the tournament.
How old is Jake Oettinger?
Jake Oettinger was born on December 18, 1998, making him 27 years old in November 2026.
Living and breathing ice hockey, Bernald Sanders delivers comprehensive coverage of the NHL season from puck drop to the Stanley Cup Finals. He specializes in tactical breakdowns, trade analysis, power-play strategies, and tracking rising draft prospects. Bernald turns fast-paced on-ice action into clear, sharp insights for hockey fans around the globe.
