Hockey Hits the Road: Competing at the Great Lakes Invitational in Grand Rapids

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Western Michigan is entering the Great Lakes Invitational seeking to claim its sixth championship in program history. WMU secured the 2022 GLI, marking its latest participation in the tournament. The Broncos commence their matchup on Dec. 29 versus Michigan Tech at 3:30 PM. The entire event is being held at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Mich. 

LAST TIME OUT

The Broncos earned a series victory against No. 2 Denver, securing four of a possible six points. Alex Bump, Matteo Costantini, Zack Sharp, Grant Slukynksy, and Tim Washe all contributed goals during the series. 

GREAT SUCCESS AT THE GLI

Over the years, the Broncos have excelled in the Great Lakes Invitational, winning the championship in each of their last four participations. The program boasts five GLI titles overall (2022, 2021, 2016, 2013, and 1986). 

The last championship for WMU occurred in 2022, where the Brown and Gold dominated opponents with a scoreline of 16-3 throughout the tournament. Jason Polin netted six goals, earning him the tournament MVP title. 

Alongside Western Michigan, this year’s competitors include Michigan State, Michigan Tech, and Northern Michigan. MSU holds the No. 1 spot nationally, while MTU is receiving votes in the national rankings. 

RESURGENT ROWE

Making the most of his final year of college eligibility, Cameron Rowe has been remarkable for the Broncos in goal this season. 

In seven starts, Rowe holds a record of 7-0-0 with a 1.56 goals against average and a .941 save percentage. He ranks among the top five in the nation for both GAA and save percentage. 

The Wilmette, Ill. product has achieved 61 career wins, with 50 coming at WMU. His 61 victories are the highest among active NCAA goaltenders. 

DEFENSE LEADS THE WAY

Recognized for its offensive ability in recent years, WMU has forged a robust defensive identity this season. The Broncos allow an average of 1.79 goals per game, placing them as the third best scoring defense in the country. 

Goalkeeping and blocked shots have contributed to this, as the Brown and Gold feature two goaltenders in the NCAA’s top five save percentage this season. WMU also leads the NCHC with an average of 12.29 blocked shots per game. 

KILLIN’ IT

Western Michigan ranks among the least penalized teams in the nation, spending a little over seven minutes per game in the penalty box. 

Nevertheless, when the Broncos do find themselves short-handed, adversaries struggle to find the back of the net. WMU’s penalty kill percentage stands at 90 percent heading into the weekend, which is good for fifth in the country. 

The Brown and Gold have not permitted a power play goal since mid-November against Minnesota Duluth. WMU has successfully killed off its last 20 penalties, conceding just four power play goals this season. 

SAVVY SOPHOMORES

The Broncos have significantly depended on their sophomore class this season, receiving valuable contributions from players like Grant Slukynsky, Alex Bump, Owen Michaels, and Cole Crusberg-Roseen. 

Slukynsky has led the second-year cohort, accumulating 12 points in 14 games. Bump has added five goals and six assists, while Michaels sits at six goals and three assists. 

Crusberg-Roseen has been at the forefront of a strong defensive unit, entering the GLI with five points and leading the team with 21 blocked shots. 

This adept sophomore class has positioned WMU among the top eight nationally in both scoring offense and scoring defense. 

TAKING ONE FOR THE TEAM

Shot blocking has emerged as a defining attribute for the Broncos of 2024-25, as the team leads the NCHC with 12.29 blocks per game. 

Every regular defenseman has registered at least eight blocks this season, with Cole Crusberg-Roseen at the forefront with 21. Brian Kramer trails closely with 19 in 14 games played. 

These blocked shots have played a crucial role in establishing one of the nation’s top scoring defenses, with WMU positioned at No. 3 nationally entering Sunday’s games. The Brown and Gold concede under 2.00 goals per game and are the only team in the NCHC permitting fewer than 2.00 goals per contest. 

SCOUTING THE HUSKIES

Michigan Tech has experienced just a single loss in its last six games, amassing a 3-1-2 record during that span. The Huskies achieved a win and a tie against Bemidji State in their most recent series on Dec. 13-14. 

WMU holds a 5-11-1 all-time record against the Huskies, yet the Broncos have triumphed in the last three encounters, including an 8-1 blowout in the previous matchup during the 2022 GLI. 

MTU has been spearheaded by Stiven Sardarian, who boasts 19 points from eight goals and 11 assists. Max Koskipirtti and Isaac Gordon have each contributed 12 points. 

In goal, Derek Mullahy has started 12 games, while Max Vayrynen has been chosen for four outings. Mullahy has a record of 6-4-2, with a 2.14 goals against average and .918 save percentage, whereas Vayrynen possesses a 3-1-0 record, 1.74 GAA, and .920 save percentage. 

CONSISTENCY IS KEY

Beginning with the 2021-22 campaign, Western Michigan has consistently ranked among the elite teams nationwide, reflected in the polls. WMU has qualified for three consecutive NCAA Tournaments and is currently sitting at No. 6 in the nation. 

The Broncos have maintained a position in the top-20 since October 11, 2021.