Wildcat hockey is back in full swing as Northern Michigan opened the Berry Events Center for the first time this season, facing off against No. 19/20 Colorado College. Despite a strong showing in both games, the Wildcats fell short, dropping a 2-1 overtime heartbreaker on Friday and a 5-2 decision on Saturday. 

Freshman goaltender Oliver Auyeung-Ashton got the start in net Friday night and was the clear standout, stopping 43 of 45 shots in an outstanding performance. The ‘Cats led 1-0 for most of the game thanks to Medrick Bolduc’s first-period goal, but the Tigers tied it late and buried the game-winner in overtime. 

“I thought the game was there to be won,” said Head Coach Dave Shyiak. “Ollie was really, really good in net. When you lose like that at home, it takes a toll on you emotionally because you played so well and thought you were right there to beat a really good team.” 

The Wildcats’ penalty kill looked sharp, shutting down all four Colorado College power plays and keeping the team in the game despite being outshot 45-17. 

“I thought our penalty kill was really good,” Shyiak said. “We did a great job taking away their rush game and tightening up in our D-zone. It’s a step in the right direction.” 

Saturday brought a more back-and-forth game, featuring more offense and physicality. The Wildcats’ lone bright spots came from freshman Mathew Ward, who scored his first career goal, and Tobias Pitka, who capitalized on a turnover created by a big hit from Kyle Bettens. 

“That’s exactly what we want, hits that lead to turnovers and goals,” Shyiak said. “I thought Bettens had a great weekend physically. When we’re in their face like that, we’re at our best.” 

However, penalty trouble hurt the ‘Cats, as the Tigers scored two power-play goals to pull away late. Freshman goalie Graham Ramsay stepped in after Auyeung-Ashton was sidelined with an injury. 

“It was just a little too up and down,” Shyiak said. “Our power play was good, but our penalty kill wasn’t. The goals we gave up were too easy, and those are things we can’t afford against a team that good.” 

Despite the pair of losses, Shyiak emphasized that progress is happening, even if the process is tough for a young team. 

“We’re six games in,” he said. “We’re doing some good things, and we just need to be more consistent. You can’t fast-track growth and development, but we’re getting better every weekend.” 

That growth will be put to the test this weekend when No. 1 Michigan State comes to Marquette for a two-game series. 

“They’re the best team in the country right now,” Shyiak said. “They’ve got size, skill, depth, and great goaltending. But when you get the best coming into your barn, it should bring out the best in you.” 

The matchup also revives a classic rivalry, one that has deep roots in Northern hockey history. Shyiak praised Michigan State head coach Adam Nightingale for bringing his squad north, something few Big Ten teams are willing to do. 

“Not too many Big Ten teams want to come up here,” Shyiak said. “Adam knows what it means to the U.P. and to our fans. It’s great for hockey and great for our program.” 

As the Wildcats look to rebound, Shyiak said the team will rely on composure and communication on home ice. 

“You want to be emotionally engaged but not too amped up,” he said. “When you play too fast and too emotional, you start making mistakes. We need calmness with intensity, and with a packed Berry, we’ll have that seventh player on the ice.” 

Puck drop against Michigan State is set for 7:07 p.m. on Friday and 6:07 on Saturday at the Berry Events Center.