Northern Michigan University Women's Hockey is among 16 teams that will compete at the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) Division 2 National Championships March 15-19 in Missouri.
“We are proud to represent NMU on the national stage,” said team captain Kristina Ligas. “This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication our team has shown throughout the entire season. With only one regulation loss all year against the Ohio State University, our performance has demonstrated the competitiveness of our program. From finishing the regular season undefeated to advancing to the Central Collegiate Women's Hockey Association playoff championship game, our team has shown determination, resilience and a strong work ethic.”
“Seeing how far the program has come and the level Kristina and today's players have taken it is truly inspiring," said Jess Jones, an NMU employee and founding member of the team. "It's exciting to watch women choose to attend NMU to be part of such a competitive program."
NMU's first game is at 7:30 p.m. EST Sunday, March 15, against Central Michigan University. The two teams faced off earlier this season in November, with NMU sweeping the two-game series 4-0 and 3-2. That weekend was especially meaningful for the program, Ligas added, as the Saturday contest was dedicated as a memorial game for goalie Lauren Eager, whose father had recently passed away.
"The CMU game meant so much to me," Eager reflected. "Watching my team give everything for the win was truly amazing. It really showed me how much we have each other's backs and how our friendships go far beyond the ice. Also, seeing the captains and coaches from both our team and CMU organize a game dedicated to my dad emphasized how hockey is so much more than just a sport. Games like this are what make hockey so special.”
“We focus on playing our game and keeping our momentum,” Ligas said in previewing Sunday's game against CMU. “It's important for us not to get caught up in other teams' records or style of play because that leads to distraction and second-guessing. We arrive at games confident in ourselves, our teammates and our ability. We know what our strengths are and what we are capable of. As long as we play our game and keep a positive mindset, we will be proud of ourselves no matter the outcome.”
NMU's remaining scheduled games at the national championships are at 7:45 p.m. Monday, March 16 against Boston University, and 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 17 vs. Assiniboine. Semifinal and final matchups are to be determined.
Ligas credits the team's mindset for contributing to this season's success.
“As an athlete, how you perform physically is important, but what matters most is your mental health and well-being—how you perceive yourself and others, and how you choose to approach the situations and battles you face,” she said. “As a team, we make sure to stay mindful. Together, we uplift and support each other and the local community on and off the ice.”
Find more information on the NMU women's team here. Follow the ACHA Division 2 National Championships here.