The Purdue Northwest ACHA D2 hockey team is exceeding expectations with a 10-6 record.
Building on last season’s 13-11 finish, the team is proving it has what it takes to elevate the game to new heights.
At the core of the team’s achievements is a feeling of unity and camaraderie.
“We’re just one big family,” said Jacob Behnke, assistant captain and a sophomore Civil Engineering major. “Whether it’s in the rink or outside of it, everyone’s fully invested in what we’re building here.”
Assistant captain Owen Ott, a sophomore, a sophomore Business Marketing student, agreed.
“The family aspect of the group shows on the ice,” he said. “Everyone loves everybody, creating the chemistry you need to succeed in the game.”
This connection between the players has been a key factor in the team’s performance this season, including an exciting eight-game winning streak earlier this season.
Adding to the team’s chemistry was the addition of new players who brought fresh energy.
“We brought in 17 new freshmen who want to follow the culture we’re building,” said Behnke. “They’re here to compete and be part of something special.”
The team’s strong leadership has also been pivotal. Captain Colin Kozijn, a sophomore majoring in Integrative Human Health, said leaders must set the pace.
“I lead by example, showing up early, doing everything the right way and being a role model for the team,” he said. “It’s about demonstrating what it takes to succeed.”
Ott said leadership is important.
“Our job as leaders is to keep everyone motivated and focused,” he said. “It’s about showing the team that anything is possible with the right mindset.”
With a roster full of talented, determined players, the team has set its sights high.
“We want to make regionals,” said Kozijn. “It would be a huge step for us as a second-year D2 team. Regionals is the goal right now.”
To that end, the team focuses on continuous improvement.
“Each week, we set new goals and raise the bar,” said Ott. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, but we know there’s so much more we can do as a team.”
The team plays Indiana Tech on Dec. 6 at The Kube Sports Complex in Hammond.
