UWSP’s Men’s Hockey Team Overcomes Challenges as They Head into Upcoming Playoffs 

Four games remain before the playoffs, and the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point men’s hockey team is fighting to secure its spot.

They have a young team this year, bringing in six new players. Tyler Krueger, head coach of the men’s hockey team for the past nine seasons said, “Not the first time we’ve turned over a big group and brought in a new group,”  

Last year, the team graduated seven seniors. This year, they have four senior players, including two goalies. 

“We knew it was going to be a bit of an adjustment early on with the younger guys, especially getting some experience in the game.” said Krueger.  

It’s been a tough year for the men’s hockey team, result-wise. They are currently 9-10-2 for the season.  

“That’s more losses than we’ve had in a lot of years, but we’ve been in every single game. There haven’t been any blowouts.” Krueger said.  

Quinton Hill, senior and assistant team captain said, “We are starting to find our game at the right time.” 

The men’s hockey team has competed in the conference for the past nine seasons. They don’t focus on the results, they focus on the progress they make along the way and how much they improve.  

“Take the results out of the equation. We just want to play hockey better.” Krueger said.  

Sean Bunting, senior and team captain said, “We had two steps forward and three back, but we’ve been playing better the past month and a half.”  

The team’s margin for error is small. “Goals have been adjusted mid-season but ultimately, they are here to play better hockey.” Krueger said.  

At the end of the day, each player wants to win the national championship. “We can lean on each other, push each other and pick each other up.” Hill said.  

The fans and atmosphere motivate the players to keep going, especially during tight games.  

“We have an atmosphere that you can’t beat.” Krueger said. The Men’s hockey team doesn’t only push themselves for their own benefit, but for their community. “Our program matters to the community.”  

The support from the student section, band, and community amps up the players. Bunting said, “We always peak out and see how big the line is when we are getting dressed.”  

“You can feel the stomping from the crowd as we’re coming out. That definitely amps us up.” Bunting said.  

Brianna Ankerson

Reporter

banke559@uwsp.edu