Great Lakes Wire

In preparation for the upcoming regular season, the Northern Michigan University (NMU) hockey team is set to face off against Michigan Tech in an exhibition match. The game will take place at the John MacInnes Student Ice Arena, marking a significant event for both teams as they test their skills and strategies.

The NMU Wildcats are undergoing a period of transition with a nearly new roster and an entirely new coaching staff led by Dave Shyiak. Despite these changes, Shyiak expresses optimism about the team's progress. "[The players] are coming along. Right from day one we were doing a lot of culture things, it was about getting to know each other… and now they're starting to feel comfortable," he said.

This match offers Wildcat fans their first opportunity to see the revamped team in action. Tickets are available for those wishing to travel to Houghton. Additionally, this game will be streamed through Midco Sports Plus, the Central Collegiate Hockey Association's (CCHA) new streaming partner.

Fans can follow @NMUHockey on X for updates leading up to and during the game on October 5th at 6:07 PM.

Coach Shyiak anticipates a challenging atmosphere: "It's going to be a raucous crowd… for our guys, they get to learn how you have to play college hockey right off the bat."

Key players for NMU include Tanner Latsch, named captain after recovering from an injury last season; Jesse Tucker, who brings extensive collegiate experience; Jakob Peterson and Zach Michaelis; and Rasmus Larsson, a New York Rangers draft pick.

In goal, senior transfer Ryan Ouellette is expected to start as he has prior collegiate experience.

Michigan Tech enters this season with high expectations after being picked second in the coaches' CCHA Preseason Poll. They won their first-ever CCHA Mason Cup Championship last year and secured a spot in the NCAA Tournament for three consecutive seasons. Isaac Gordon was recognized as CCHA Preseason Player of the Year following his impressive performance last season with 36 points and 18 goals.

Chase Pietila also received pre-season All-CCHA team honors after contributing significantly with assists last season. Despite some roster changes, including departures via transfers such as Kyle Kukkonen and Ryland Mosley, Michigan Tech remains competitive heading into this exhibition match against NMU.