Byron Center, Mich. — Nobody likes to lose, but some losses can still carry a sense of accomplishment. For AQ, a well-played game against a nationally ranked opponent fits that criteria. On Friday afternoon, the Aquinas women's hockey team wrapped up their home season with a tough 6-0 loss to No. 7-ranked Indiana Tech.

Friday: Indiana Tech 6, Aquinas 0

Defensively, the first period couldn't have gone much better for Aquinas. Despite being outshot 25-0, the Saints delivered a gritty performance they should be proud of. Unfortunately, Indiana Tech's defense was equally dominant, stopping any offensive attempts before they could reach goalie Ashtyn Barthiaume, who did not register a stat in the first period.

The Warriors have earned their top-10 ranking, and giving them any opening is dangerous. The Saints were called for a pair of tripping penalties, and Indiana Tech capitalized, converting two of three power-play opportunities. While the AQ defense continued to work hard, the Warriors' offense fired at will, putting 78 shots on AQ goalie Izzie Buckett. Despite the onslaught, Buckett managed to stop 72 of them for an impressive .923 save percentage.

Head Coach Matthew Bland praised his team's resilience despite the outcome: "We gave it all we had today and fell short. Give Indiana Tech all the credit for being a great team. They executed a good game plan and consistently applied pressure. It was that pressure that made it tough to find space and rhythm."

Saturday: Indiana Tech 16, Aquinas 0

It was a tough end to the series as the Saints could not find any answers to the relentless attack of the Warriors. Aquinas was only able to muster six shots on goal. Izzy Buckett faced 57 shots.
The loss drops Aquinas to 3-15 overall and 1-8 in conference play, with one week remaining in the regular season.

Three Saints Sent Off in Style

On Senior Day, three graduating seniors were honored before the game. Kylie Rancilio, Julia DeHount, and Alyssa Exline were recognized for their accomplishments and contributions to the women's hockey program and Aquinas athletics. Each was escorted by their parents onto the ice for a pregame ceremony.

Alyssa Exline recalled her favorite AQ moment as the unforgettable broken-down bus trip to LSSU. Julia DeHount advised younger players to "make the most of it because it truly goes by fast, and be kind to those around you." Kylie Rancilio expressed her gratitude to her teammates for fostering an amazing team culture. Coach Bland spoke highly of the three seniors, saying, "They will never be replaced, but the legacy they leave behind will resonate with this team for years to come."

By the Numbers

• Game DQs: Kate Kramm (AQ) and Megan Yakiwchuk (IT) received 5- and 10-minute game disqualification penalties.
• Shots on Goal: The Saints were outshot 78-15 and held without a shot in the first period.
• Izzy Buckett: Another stellar performance, stopping 72 of 78 shots for a .923 save percentage.

Up Next

The Saints will complete their home-and-home series with Indiana Tech in less than 24 hours, following a long bus ride. Puck drop is set for 2:30 p.m.