College hockey in Madison is a seemingly constant activity during these winter months, but, unfortunately, it’s coming to a close.
The Wisconsin men’s hockey team was home for 3 weekends in January and 2 in February keeping us plenty busy. In addition, the Wisconsin women’s team also played at home 3 weekends in January allowing for a few double-headers during the month.
As has been their way, the men frequently fall behind during the first 2 periods, battle back in the third to tie and either lose near the end of regulation or lose in overtime. While they will finish with a couple more wins than their horrendous 4-win season a year ago, it will be a few more years before the men are back where they belong – in the NCAA tournament as a regular. We will dip our collective toe in the post-season waters in a few weeks at the B1G tournament, but that’s only because there are only 6 teams in the conference. I know there’s no going back, but I do miss the WCHA at times like this.
After winning the regular season WCHA championship, the women will begin their post-season push with an opening series against MSU-Mankato this weekend. Coach Johnson and the women seem to relish in the full arena and loud crowds as evidenced by their home winning streak. Conversely to the men, the women just win. As you might imagine, it is very enjoyable to follow a team that packs the house and consistently wins. Might there be a correlation? Of course. Keep rolling, ladies!
Go Bucky!