Wisconsin Women’s Hockey Team Dominates in Season Opener

BEMIDJI, Minn. — The No. 1 Wisconsin women’s hockey team kicked off their season with a commanding 9-2 victory over Bemidji State on Friday night. Six different Badgers scored in the game, showcasing their offensive power and teamwork.

Kirsten Simms, Lacey Eden, and Maggie Scannell led the charge, each netting two goals, while Charlotte Pieckenhagen, Cassie Hall, and Kelly Gorbatenko each contributed one goal. This win continues a tradition for the Badgers, who have outscored the Beavers 65-3 over their last ten meetings.

The game’s first goal came late in the first period when Simms found the back of the net against Bemidji State’s goalkeeper Kaitlin Groess, who made 15 saves in the opening frame. The Badgers extended their lead in the second period with Eden scoring shortly after, followed by a rare response from the Beavers. Maddie Kaiser scored her first collegiate goal a minute later, firing one past Ava McNaughton.

Despite their efforts, the Beavers were unable to contain the Badgers for long. Wisconsin scored four goals in the final seven minutes of the second period, solidifying their dominance.

The game also featured a memorable moment for freshman Pieckenhagen, who scored her first collegiate goal in the third period. However, the Badgers faced a lapse in concentration that allowed Kate Johnson to score another for the Beavers.

Throughout the game, Wisconsin traded shots with Bemidji State, recording a remarkable total of 79 shots, with 42 on goal. Bemidji State, on the other hand, recorded 24 shots, with 16 deemed on target.

The Badgers are set to face Bemidji State again Saturday, with the puck dropping at 3:02 p.m., aiming to continue their winning streak against the Beavers.