ST. LOUIS, MO. –– The long-awaited dream has finally become a reality. After a magical, historic, and unforgettable season filled with numerous program firsts and prestigious accolades, Western Michigan hockey made its final act even more extraordinary. On Saturday night, in a moment that was 52 years in the making, the No. 1-ranked Broncos (34-7-1) showcased their prowess on the national stage, clinching their first-ever national championship by decisively defeating Boston University, 6-2. This victory not only marks the pinnacle of the program’s best season ever but also secures the ultimate prize in college hockey.
“I’m feeling a little bit of everything, so many emotions,” exclaimed WMU graduate forward Tim Washe in an ESPN interview following the game. “Winning the last game of the year is everything you dream of.” Sophomore forward Owen Michaels, who starred in the Frozen Four, played a pivotal role by scoring the decisive fourth and sixth goals of the game, culminating in an incredible four-goal performance throughout the Frozen Four.
Leading 3-2 entering the third period, Western Michigan unleashed a three-goal barrage, initiated and concluded by Michaels, with a goal from Iiro Hakkarainen sandwiched in between. Michaels’ second goal, an empty-netter, sealed the win with just over two minutes remaining in regulation. The Broncos’ six goals represent the highest tally ever recorded by a team in an NCAA championship game since 2014.
With this momentous win, Western Michigan not only captures its first national title since 1965—when the men’s cross country team achieved back-to-back championships—but also becomes the sixth college hockey program in Michigan to claim the national title. The intensity of the game was palpable, with both teams fully aware of the stakes at hand.
The Broncos wasted no time asserting themselves on the grand stage. Remarkably, their very first shot found the back of the net. Iiro Hakkarainen launched a shot from the blueline, which was deflected by Wyatt Schingoethe, resulting in an early 1-0 advantage just over a minute and a half into the game. This set the tone for a frantic first period.
Boston would equalize later in the period when Cole Eiserman managed to poke a loose puck into the net after a scramble in front of WMU goalie Hampton Slukynsky. Not deterred, Western Michigan regained the lead through a well-executed 3-on-2 transition play, where Alex Bump’s initial shot created chaos, allowing Cole Crusberg-Roseen to blast the rebound home, pushing the score to 2-1.
Momentum shifted further in the Broncos' favor as they capitalized on another scoring opportunity early in the second period. A 2-on-1 breakaway allowed Cam Knuble to set up Ty Henricks, who found the net to extend the lead to 3-1. However, the Terriers fought back, with Shane Lachance clawing one back for Boston, making it 3-2.
As the second period progressed, both teams had multiple power play opportunities, yet neither could capitalize. Just as the period was winding down, Owen Michaels added a crucial goal on another man advantage, firing a wicked wrister past BU goalie Mikhail Yegorov, increasing the Broncos’ lead to 4-2.
In the third period, the energy in the Enterprise Center was electric. With the Broncos leading, they scored another, courtesy of Iiro Hakkarainen, bringing the score to 5-2. An empty-netter from Owen Michaels finalized the score at 6-2, solidifying Western Michigan’s place in history.
With this victory, the Broncos return to Kalamazoo with a national title for the first time in 60 years, marking a significant milestone in the history of Western Michigan hockey. This championship not only exemplifies the team's hard work and dedication throughout the season but also sets a new standard for future generations of the program.
