The Western Michigan Broncos have made history by winning their first NCAA Hockey Championship, defeating the Boston University Terriers 6-2 in the NCAA Frozen Four 2025 championship game held at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis.
The game began with a flurry of action as Wyatt Schingoethe opened the scoring for Western Michigan just 1:38 into the first period, assisted by Iiro Hakkarainen and Tim Washe. The Broncos quickly established their offensive presence, showcasing their physicality and aggressive forechecking throughout the game.
However, the Terriers responded with determination. Boston University’s Cole Eiserman tied the game at 1-1 midway through the first period, sneaking the puck past Broncos goalie Hampton Slukynsky. The first period ended with Western Michigan holding a narrow 2-1 lead after Cole Crusberg-Roseen scored on a rebound with just under five minutes remaining in the period.
As the second period unfolded, both teams continued to trade chances. The Broncos extended their lead to 3-1 with a goal from Ty Henricks at 14:42, assisted by Cam Knuble, who made a dazzling play to set up the score. The Terriers fought back, and Shane Lachance scored to bring Boston University within one, making it 3-2. The tension in the arena was palpable as the teams entered the final period.
In the third period, Western Michigan maintained its composure. Owen Michaels scored a crucial goal at 12:44, pushing the Broncos' lead to 4-2. Michaels, who had been a standout throughout the tournament, later added an empty-net goal to secure his team’s victory, finishing the game with two goals and earning the title of Most Outstanding Player of the Frozen Four.
Iiro Hakkarainen also contributed significantly to the Broncos' success, scoring a pivotal goal that extended the lead to 5-2 with less than four minutes left in the game. The Broncos' relentless offensive attack, combined with solid defensive play, allowed them to control the pace of the game, leading to their historic victory.
Head coach Pat Ferschweiler expressed immense pride in his team’s performance, noting their resilience and determination throughout the tournament. “This win is a testament to our hard work and dedication,” Ferschweiler said. “We came together as a team and executed our game plan perfectly.”
The final score of 6-2 marked a significant achievement for Western Michigan, who celebrated their first national championship in program history. The Broncos' journey to the title included a dramatic semifinal win against Denver, setting the stage for their triumphant finale against Boston University.
Boston University, despite being a six-time champion, faced disappointment as their title drought extended to 16 years. The Terriers had entered the game with high hopes but were unable to overcome the Broncos' strong performance.
The championship game was broadcast live on ESPN2, capturing the excitement and intensity of college hockey at its finest. Fans from both teams filled the arena, creating an electric atmosphere as they cheered on their respective squads.
Western Michigan’s victory not only highlights their growth as a program but also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college hockey. As the Broncos raise the championship trophy for the first time, they have solidified their place in NCAA hockey history.
As the celebrations continue, the Broncos will look to build on this success in the coming years, while Boston University will regroup and aim to reclaim their status as a powerhouse in college hockey.
With the 2025 NCAA Hockey Championship concluded, fans are already looking forward to next season, eager to see how these two teams will evolve and compete in the ever-challenging landscape of college hockey.
