Grand Rapids, MI — Buckle up, Saints Nation. The 2025–26 Aquinas men's DI hockey team is charging into the new season with no warm-up laps, dropping the puck against one of the state's elite in a home-and-home showdown with the Hope Flying Dutchmen. Expectations are sky-high for this year's squad, and head coach Brandon Rozema wouldn't have it any other way. By stacking the non-conference slate with heavyweights, Rozema is throwing his team straight into the fire, knowing the early battles will forge the toughness and resilience needed to thrive once the grueling conference schedule begins.

Friday @ Hope
Hope 8, Aquinas 1
The Saints opened the season on the road in Hudsonville and fought to keep pace with a high-powered Hope attack. Despite Hope's relentless scoring, Aquinas found a bright spot when captain Zachary Burns buried his first goal of the year late in the third period, showing leadership and determination. Goaltender Randon Striplin faced a barrage of shots, making 36 saves before giving way to Simon Johnson, who closed the game with 10 more stops. Defensemen Alex Johnson and Easton Pratt battled in their own zone against constant pressure, while forwards Gavin Rozema and Braylen Outwater worked to generate energy and physical play. Freshman Aiden Middendorf showed flashes of his speed on the wing, while Ben Cesario and Logan Boettcher chipped in with valuable shifts as AQ tried to push the pace. Though the scoreboard tilted heavily in Hope's favor, AQ left the opener with signs of fight and resilience.

Saturday @ Home
Hope 5, Aquinas 0
Returning to Byron Center for their home opener, the Saints came out determined to tighten things up defensively. Simon Johnson stood tall in net with 45 saves, keeping AQ within reach despite heavy shot totals from Hope. Brendan Bourne and Cooper Nienhuis played with grit along the boards, while Logan Boettcher and Chase DiTullio logged key minutes on special teams. Zachary Burns and Gavin Phillips were active in trying to create scoring chances, while Tyler Hilliker and Ignazy Drozd contributed on both ends with hustle plays and puck battles. Xavier Erickson added energy on the forecheck, pressuring Hope's defense and helping to keep the Saints engaged throughout the contest. Though Aquinas couldn't break through offensively, the team showed improved discipline and stronger defensive structure compared to the night before. With young players gaining crucial experience against one of the nation's top programs, the Saints walked away with valuable lessons to build upon.

Inside the Numbers (Weekend)

• 91 total saves recorded by AQ goaltenders.
• Zachary Burns scored AQ's first goal of the season.
• Simon Johnson faced 90 total shots across two appearances.
• Ten different Saints logged penalties, showing physical play but also room for discipline.
• Saturday AQ was 0-4 on the power play, Hope was 3-7, but 2-2 in 5 on 3 advantage.
•  AQ's home opener drew a strong local crowd at Southside Ice Arena.

Coaches' Comments
Following the weekend, Coach Brandon Rozema reflected on his team's effort:
"Hope is as tough an opponent as you'll find, and that's exactly why we scheduled them. We want our guys tested right away so they understand the pace and intensity needed at this level. I was proud of how we competed, even when the games got away from us. Zachary's goal was a great moment for the group, and Simon and Randon both battled hard in net. These are the experiences that will prepare us for the grind of conference play."

Up Next
Coach Rozema's squad will be back in action next weekend with another tough test — a home-and-home series against the Lakers of Grand Valley State. The Saints will travel to the GVSU Ice Arena on Friday night before returning home to Southside Ice Arena on Saturday. Fans can follow along with live stats, scores, and recaps at AQSaints.com.