Grand Rapids, Mich. — Nobody can argue that the start of the 2025 AQ Women's Hockey season has not been a character builder for the team. You see the fight in this group, even if their record doesn't reflect it. Head Coach Emma Hoch has done a masterful job of keeping the team focused on growth and improvement as they battle through injuries and wait for reinforcements to arrive.

Eastern Michigan 5, Aquinas 1 (Friday Night)

The Saints opened their two-game series on the road Friday in Canton, Michigan, showing flashes of potential despite the 5–1 setback. Sophomore center Anna Castle provided the lone goal for Aquinas, scoring on the power play midway through the second period off an assist from veteran forward Joleena Manone. That tally gave AQ some much-needed momentum, as defenders Lorelei Weinrick and Bridget Clay anchored a penalty-kill unit that faced several tough situations throughout the contest. Goaltender Izzy Buckett stood tall in net, facing over 50 shots while making numerous impressive saves to keep the Saints within striking distance. Forwards Paige Ike and Sydney Clark helped push the puck into the offensive zone, creating opportunities that tested the Eastern Michigan defense. Despite the final score, it was a gritty performance that highlighted the team's determination and relentless effort.

Eastern Michigan 3, Aquinas 0 (Saturday Night)

The following day at Southside Ice Arena, the Saints battled hard again but couldn't find the back of the net in a 3–0 loss to the Eagles. Goaltenders Lila Dial and Buckett split time between the pipes, combining for 49 saves in another courageous defensive showing. Paige Ike was a workhorse on both ends, drawing contact and blocking shots, while Cali Lindbeck and Elizabeth Bruso brought consistent energy across the boards. Weinrick, Kaylee Daigle, and Reyna Dominczak turned in one of the team's best defensive efforts of the season, keeping the game within reach until late in the third period. Though the Saints couldn't convert on their power-play chances, they continued to show growth in puck movement and discipline — a sign that the pieces are coming together under Hoch's leadership.

Inside the Numbers (Both Games)
     • 65 – Combined saves by goaltenders Izzy Buckett and Lila Dial over two games.
     • 1 – Power-play goal scored by Anna Castle, assisted by Joleena Manone.
     • 6 – Different Saints recorded at least one penalty over the weekend.
     • 2 – Strong games from the penalty kill, holding EMU scoreless in multiple opportunities.
     • 0 – Quit in the Saints, despite facing adversity in every period.

Coach's Comment
Head Coach Emma Hoch discussed the challenges of keeping the team united in the midst of a growing number of losses:
"Adversity builds identity, and I'm proud of how our group continues to show up and battle. We've faced injuries, roster limitations, and tough opponents, but these players never stop giving their all. We're learning, we're improving, and we'll come out of this stretch stronger as a team."

Up Next
Coach Hoch and the Saints will have some practice time and a break from competition before returning to the ice for a two-game road series with Niagara on November 7 and 8. Full stats, notes, and recaps will be available at AQSaints.com.