UM-Flint men's hockey team off to promising start

The University of Michigan-Flint men's hockey team is set for an action-packed week to build on its already impressive 6-4-1 start. With a challenging away game and a thrilling home series on the horizon, the team is poised to showcase their growing confidence and skill.

The team displayed its recent success with back-to-back 4-1 road victories, Oct. 11-12, against West Virginia University, a strong Division III team. This extended its winning streak against D3 opponents at the time to five games.

The first game saw UM-Flint outshoot West Virginia 66-24. Austin Hinkson scored his first two career goals, while sophomore assistant captain Zach Potter and sophomore Blake Burger also found the net. The Wolverines' defense was equally impressive, led by sophomore captain Grayson Meisner, first-year student Conlan Carpenter, and first-year student Nolan Plassio. The netminding trio allowed just one goal on 24 shots. The second game mirrored the first, with UM-Flint outshooting WVU 63-26. Senior captain Brendan Miles, sophomore assistant captain Blaine Gour, and first-year defenseman Nick Temple each scored, with first-year student Juan Baxa, first-year student Bryce Moe, and Carpenter providing assists.

Nick Temple takes a shot on goal. — *Temple takes a shot on goal during a recent contest against Schoolcraft College.*

"These two wins will go a long way in building our overall team confidence heading into conference play," said head coach Nicholas Karstens. "After dropping our first two games of the year, it's encouraging to see the team come together and string together these victories."

UM-Flint displayed remarkable resilience and skill in two hard-fought games against Ferris State University last weekend. The Wolverines secured a 5-3 victory, Oct. 18, despite trailing multiple times, while outshooting their opponents 35-19. Gour led the charge with two goals and two assists, while Potter contributed three assists and Temple netted two. After a physical and intense battle, the Oct. 19 contest ended in a 2-2 tie. The Wolverines fought from behind throughout the game, with Austin Hinkson scoring on a power play and Riley Melody notching the equalizer late in the third period.

"We're excited about the challenges ahead. Our team has shown great progress, and these upcoming games are crucial for our continued development," said Karstens. "We encourage everyone on campus to attend as many home games as possible and show the team their support during the season. The team would feed off the energy and the support."

Players entering the bench during a line up change.

Looking Ahead

UM-Flint will take the ice for a two-game home series against Illinois State:

Friday, Oct. 25, puck drop at 8 p.m. at the Crystal Fieldhouse Arena.
Saturday, Oct. 26, puck drop at 3 p.m. at the Crystal Fieldhouse Arena (Halloween costume game).

The Halloween costume game promises to be a special event. Costumed attendees will receive free admission and a post-game meet-and-greet, during which players will distribute candy.

Club sports costs are sponsored in part by the university but also rely on team dues and philanthropic support to cover expenses. To learn more and to donate, visit the giving webpage.

Tickets, available at the door, are $7 for general admission, and $5 for UM-Flint faculty, staff and seniors (62+). UM-Flint students and children 12 and under are admitted free.

The complete season's schedule is available on the team's website. Fans can also watch home games live on the team's YouTube page.