On Saturday, Oct. 20, the Lakers traveled to Big Rapids, Mich., to play the Ferris State Bulldogs. The Lakers put up a solid fight against the Bulldogs, refusing to lose in the 3-3 tie. Currently, the Lakers hold a record of 0-2-1, with the majority of the season still to come.

Sophomore forward Ryan Misiak scored the first goal of the game, which was his second of the young season. Being from Michigan, Misiak was happy to have his family in attendance. It served as a chance for Misiak to show his loved ones what he is able to do with their support.

“My dream was to always play college hockey at the Division I level, and to reach that goal, and to share that with the people who supported me the most on route here,” Misiak said.

Misiak has two goals and two assists over the last three games, and is optimistic on the rest of the season.

Ryan Misiak makes his way along the boards in the Laker’s game against Ferris State: Jen Coulomee photo
“Although we may not have a dish in the win column as of yet, we just need to get back to doing the little things we did last year that made us successful.” Misiak said.

Despite the win-less season, the Lakers confidence has not diminished in the least bit.

“The team’s morale has not decreased whatsoever, it may actually be stronger. Adversity is something that brings a team closer together,” said Misiak. “This is the closest knit of guys I have ever played with, and as a family we know that the sky is the limit if we all pull together and continue to work hard and improve in all aspects.”

After time had expired in the game on Saturday, both teams competed in a shootout. Although unofficial in the eyes of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the Lakers won the shootout with a goal by sophomore forward Nardo Nagtzaam.

“It was a big learning lesson for our group as a whole, but we know a win is a win. I couldn’t be more proud of the guys, with the heart and pride they showed Saturday night,” Misiak said.

The Lakers will search for their first official win of the season on Friday, Nov. 2, against Sacred Heart’s Pioneers in Bridgeport, Connecticut.