The enthusiasm of ice hockey fans echoed through Messa Rink on October 20 when Union College hosted the University of Connecticut for their first home game of the season. The stage was set for a night of drama, suspense, and sportsmanship as the Dutchmen faced the Huskies in a high-octane ice hockey showdown. In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Union College emerged victorious, defeating UConn 4-1 in an exciting battle.
The game began with palpable excitement and high expectations. Just over eight minutes remained in the first period when Union College seemed to score. The crowd erupted in cheers as a goal found the net after four shots, turning the arena into a sea of ecstatic fans.
However, the elation quickly turned to disappointment as the goal was ruled invalid. Boos and jeers filled the arena as the crowd expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision. But Union College didn’t waver. Just 29 seconds later, they found the back of the net once more, igniting another wave of jubilation among the spectators.
Throughout the period, Union demonstrated unwavering resilience, even with two players in the penalty box. The team’s goalkeeper showcased remarkable prowess, making numerous critical saves to maintain their lead. Union’s goaltender, Kyle Chauvette ’26, made a career-high 36 saves during the game, including 17 in the final period, cementing his role as a key player in the team’s victory.
The second period saw a shift in momentum as UConn seized control early on, denying Union College significant opportunities. They displayed their impressive prowess, asserting dominance. Nonetheless, Union’s goaltender continued to shine, thwarting UConn’s attempts and preserving the lead. The period mirrored the first with Union College displaying rock-solid defensive plays, culminating in yet another miraculous save by the Garnet Chargers.
The final period proved to be the most dramatic. Union College entered the period with a 1-0 lead, but UConn was determined to shift the balance. Just a minute and a half into the period, UConn managed to level the score, intensifying the rivalry. Both teams displayed heightened enthusiasm, battling relentlessly to gain the upper hand. With 11 minutes and 40 seconds left on the clock, Union College struck back, scoring their second goal in a stunning display of individual skill. A Union striker weaved through the UConn defense, seized control of the puck, and unleashed a powerful shot into the net, sending the crowd into raptures. With only 2 minutes and 30 seconds remaining, Union College faced adversity with a player in the penalty box. However, this challenge did not hinder them. Union scored once more as a player launched a shot from behind the centerline, finding the empty net, and securing their lead.
The closing moments of the game were marked by high tension. Union College had to defend with just three players and a goalie due to another player’s presence in the penalty zone. UConn launched a desperate offensive, with one player even making a daring run towards the goal in an attempt to score. With barely a few minutes left on the clock, the Garnet Chargers struck again, getting a three-goal lead and ending the match with a score of 4-1.
The scorecard featured four different goal scorers. Caden Villegas ’25 extended his goal streak to four games, while senior Ville Immonen capitalized on the power play, and Ben Tupker ’24 scored shorthanded. Carter Korpi ’26 notched his second goal in as many games, and Nate Hanley ’26 recorded a multi-point night with two assists. Villegas opened the scoring with his fourth goal in as many games at 12:24 of the first period, with Hanley playing a pivotal role in setting up the goal.
In a thrilling game full of twists and turns, Union College emerged victorious, showcasing outstanding teamwork, unwavering resilience, and moments of sheer brilliance. It’s also worth noting that Union College and UConn faced off again on October 21, where Union lost 5-0, highlighting the competitive nature of collegiate ice hockey.
Additionally, Sarthak Kumar ’27 shared his excitement about the game, stating, ‘The game was so fun, I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to college ice hockey. It was an incredible experience to be part of this fantastic atmosphere.’ His enthusiasm reflects the electric atmosphere and the memorable nature of the game, which undoubtedly left a lasting impression on all who attended.
