2012-13 Stories of the Year (HM): Men’s Hockey enjoys taste of success

2012-13 Stories of the Year (HM): Men’s Hockey enjoys taste of success

MEQUON, Wis. – There were many great and inspiring athletic achievements throughout the 2012-13 athletic year at Concordia University Wisconsin. The list of top stories could have gone on and on, but only six were chosen (honorable mention and top five).

The list was compiled by the CUW Athletic Communications Department and a committee of coaches, and like all lists it is subject to debate. The list of stories will be revealed over the next six weeks with a story being released each Tuesday.

Honorable Mention
Men's Hockey enjoys taste of success

VIDEO: Men's Hockey 3-2 victory celebration over Lawrence University (11/02/12)
2012-13 Men's Hockey schedule, recaps, photos

The hiring of Men's Hockey head coach Jasen Wise in the early part of March 2012 signified a change in leadership and expectations that winning would become the norm. With his vision, came massive changes to a program that struggled for five seasons winning just 10 games.

A roster comprised of nearly all freshmen, new equipment purchases, more community service and the anticipation of conference championships were all on the list of things to do. Student-athletes from near and far jumped on board seeking greatness, and to do something never done before at CUW.

Along with the hiring of full-time assistant coach Zach Gaynor, the Men's Hockey program began the season by satisfying the nearly sold-out crowds at the Ozaukee Ice Center. The Falcons pushed nationally ranked MSOE before earning its first home victory and series sweep over Lawrence University in early November.

Adding a shutout victory and a series sweep over Lake Forest College, CUW had a winning record it hadn't achieved before. Keeping that momentum was going to be difficult, especially with eight games remaining on the schedule – 11 total throughout the season – against teams at least receiving a vote in the national polls.

The Falcons fell into the losing column more than they wanted down the stretch, but continued to show flashes of a team that had title winning capabilities. A near upset of No. 7/8 Adrian College at home preceded a season-ending victory over rival Marian University on their home ice to give them seven wins and 18 defeats.

It was a season of ups and downs for all involved with the CUW Men's Hockey program, but enthusiasm and anticipation for the seasons to come are evident by the commitment of the student-athletes on the roster.