Grand Rapids, Mich. — The start of the season has tested the Aquinas women's hockey team in every imaginable way. Between a grueling early schedule, a shortened bench brought on by injuries and unexpected circumstances, and a search for consistent scoring, the Saints have faced more than their share of adversity. Yet through it all, this group continues to battle with heart and belief — in their new head coach Emma Hoch, in the process she's building, and in one another. Wins may be hard to come by right now, but the Saints' commitment, resilience, and team-first mindset have laid the groundwork for the kind of growth that lasts far beyond a scoreboard.

Thursday, October 9, 2025 @ Ann Arbor, MI
Michigan 11, Aquinas 0

Facing off against a high-powered Michigan squad, the Saints fought hard despite the uphill battle from the opening faceoff. Goaltender Izzy Buckett shouldered the workload, stopping 43 shots through two periods before Lila Dial came in for relief to make a dozen more saves against one of the nation's top offenses. Defenders Anna Sherman, Paige Ike, and Joleena Manone battled to block lanes and protect the crease, while forwards Reyna Dominczak, Lorelei Weinrick, and Bridgett Clay worked tirelessly to generate opportunities in transition. Even as the Wolverines' depth began to show, the Saints never quit skating hard and stayed disciplined through the final whistle. The experience provided valuable learning moments and motivation heading into the weekend matchup against Grand Valley State.

Sunday, October 12, 2025 @ Byron Center, MI
Grand Valley State 7, Aquinas 1

Back on home ice, the Saints found a few sparks to build upon. Lorelei Weinrick gave Aquinas a well-deserved boost late in the third period, netting a power-play goal off assists from Reyna Dominczak and Anna Sherman. The play was the product of sustained pressure and strong puck movement from a unit that has shown growth each game. Izzy Buckett faced a heavy barrage yet again, turning aside 69 shots while defenders Anna Castle, Paige Ike, and Joleena Manone fought to clear traffic in front of the net. Reyna Dominczak and Sydney Clark led the team's physical presence, battling along the boards and keeping AQ engaged in all three zones. Though the result wasn't what they wanted, the Saints continued to show flashes of improvement and unity.

Inside the Numbers (Weekend Totals)
• Aquinas totaled 2 goals and 3 assists across the weekend
• Goalie Izzy Buckett recorded 112 total saves between both contests
• Lorelei Weinrick scored her first goal of the season Sunday
• The Saints have now scored in four of their last six games
• There were four postgame misconducts issued (two to each team) following a regrettable situation as the game concluded

Coach's Comment
Head Coach Emma Hoch reflected on the long trip and the early-season learning curve:
"Our record doesn't reflect how proud I am of this group. The schedule has been challenging, and we've had to manage injuries and a short bench, but these players keep showing up with heart and effort. They're learning to defend together, communicate better, and trust the process. Most importantly, they're enjoying being part of something that's growing the right way. Brighter days are ahead — we just have to keep pushing and believing in each other."

Fun Fact
Prior to the game, I had the chance to chat with several players and a recruit, and it was refreshing to see their enthusiasm, camaraderie, and genuine love for the game. This group embodies what it means to be true student-athletes — they work hard, support one another, and have fun doing it. Although some technical hiccups and a delayed start pushed their scheduled segment on Joey's Wacky World of AQ Sports to a future episode, I want to thank them for their kind words, positive energy, and for being such fantastic fans.

Up Next
The AQ women's hockey team will travel to Dearborn to face UM-Dearborn to begin a home-and-home with the Wolverines — Friday at 7:00 PM, before returning home Saturday for a 7:00 PM puck drop at Southside Ice Arena. Full stats, notes, and recaps will be available at AQSaints.com — stay tuned for coverage as the Saints continue to grind through their challenging early-season stretch.