Western Michigan University (WMU) has made history by qualifying for its first-ever Frozen Four tournament in program history, defeating UMass 2-1 in a thrilling matchup at Scheels Arena on Saturday night. The Broncos’ victory marks their 32nd win of the season, tying a program record.
The game was pivotal to Western Michigan’s success, with special teams playing a crucial role in the team’s triumph. Two power-play goals from WMU secured the win, as Liam Valente tied the game in the second period and Tim Washe scored the game-winner in the third.
Hampton Slukynsky earned his 17th win of the season between the pipes, making 28 saves to secure the victory. The Broncos’ standout performance was recognized with several awards, including Most Outstanding Player Liam Valente and selections to the All-Regional Team for Hampton Slukynsky and Samuel Sjolund.
The first period saw a high-intensity matchup, with Western Michigan’s Grant Slukynsky putting up an early shot on net. However, UMass countered with a goal before the end of the frame. The Minutemen then took advantage of a power play opportunity to gain a one-goal lead, but Western Michigan responded by blocking shots and forcing even strength.
In the second period, Western Michigan was assessed a tripping penalty, giving them a crucial 5-on-4 power play. However, it was UMass that received a major and game misconduct penalty for boarding, turning the tables in favor of Western Michigan. Liam Valente capitalized on this opportunity with a one-timer goal to tie the game.
The Broncos continued to dominate, as Brian Kramer redirected a shot into the net to give Western Michigan a 2-1 lead. The team then successfully killed off a five-minute power play and pulled their goalie to even out the score. However, they were able to clear the zone with three seconds left on the clock, securing a thrilling regional championship victory.
Western Michigan will now head to St. Louis for the Frozen Four in two weeks, where they will face the winner of the Denver vs Boston College matchup. Ticket information is set to be released this Sunday, with ticket requests available starting Monday at 10AM.
Source: https://wmubroncos.com/news/2025/3/30/mens-ice-hockey-broncos-punch-ticket-to-frozen-four-with-win-over-umass.aspx