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Canisius Hockey Looks to Build Momentum Against Ranked Michigan State

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the Canisius Griffins hockey team navigates their toughest match of the season against the fourth-ranked Michigan State Spartans, they are riding a much-needed confidence boost after notching their first win of the season against Mercyhurst. Senior captain Matt Vermaeten credits his teammates for the win, stating that it was a "step in the right direction" and a "really good confidence boost for the rest of the season." The Griffins will face off against Michigan State, a team boasting NHL talent and a roster that includes two players selected by the Sabres, in a highly anticipated regular season series.

Key Takeaways:

  • Canisius notched their first win of the season against Mercyhurst 6--3 in their first Atlantic Hockey game of the year, with senior captain Matt Vermaeten scoring his second goal of the season.
  • Vermaeten credits his teammates for the win, stating that it was a "step in the right direction" and a "really good confidence boost for the rest of the season."
  • Canisius will face off against the fourth-ranked Michigan State Spartans in a highly anticipated regular season series, featuring a team with NHL talent and a roster that includes two players selected by the Sabres.
  • Michigan State won the Big Ten championship last season and split a series with No. 2 Boston College earlier this month.
  • Canisius coach Trevor Large believes that if the team plays like they did against Mercyhurst, they will have a chance at beating the talented opponent.
  • The puck drops in this highly anticipated matchup between Canisius and Michigan State this Friday, Oct. 25, at 7 p.m. at the LECOM Harborcenter.

Statistics:

  • Canisius is currently 1--4 in the season.
  • Michigan State is ranked #4 in the nation in the AP poll.
  • The Big Ten championship winner, Michigan State, split a series with No. 2 Boston College earlier this month.
  • The two Sabres players on Michigan State's roster are Patrick Geary and Maxim Å trbák.

Sources:

  • Interview with Matt Vermaeten
  • Interview with Maggie Tifft (postgame interview with Canisius coach Trevor Large)
  • Chloe Breen (Photo Courtesy)

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