CMU hockey earns first win against Oakland University
CMU hockey enters the win column for the first time this season
Central Michigan University freshman forward Lance Hatfield looks for an open teammate to pass the puck to at Martin Ice Arena, on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025. Hatfield had no attempted shots but assisted graduate student defensemen Tej Kothari. (CM Life | Jasmine Brookins)
Joy erupted at Martin Ice Arena on Saturday as the Central Michigan D1 Club Hockey team tasted a 4-1 victory for the first time this season after a hard-fought series against Oakland University.
“It was a huge step forward for us as a group,” said goalie and team president Dylan Niermeyer. “Almost every single guy’s energy on the bench was way higher than normal. The vibes in the locker room were really good, and everybody was really focused.”
CMU opened the series on the road, yet ultimately fell in a 2-4 decision. Goalie Aiden Reamer was able to fend off most of the Golden Grizzlies’ shots, but a highly explosive third period by Oakland overpowered the Chippewas’ defense.
Frankie Williamson and Dylan Locey scored the two goals of the night for Central Michigan, making it Williamson’s fourth of the season and Locey’s second in his collegiate career.
The following night would produce a much more favorable result for the Chippewas, and while wearing pink-accented uniforms for Breast Cancer Awareness Night, they would conquer Oakland 4-1.
“We had even pressure across the board, and we were able to put up four goals with that pressure,” said Niermeyer. “It didn’t seem like there were as many distractions as usual.”
Defenseman Tej Kothari, in his first season as a Chippewa after previously playing for Michigan at the D2 level, would score twice to build upon Central Michigan’s lead. Meanwhile, Niermeyer would record 37 saves to shut down Oakland’s offense.
“Like every goalie will tell you, it’s a mental game,” Niermeyer said about his performance. “I got into a good routine before the game, and I plan on implementing the same routine the next time I play.”
Niermeyer also reflected upon what this victory means for many of the seasoned players on the team.
“For all of us returners who stuck through two years ago, starting with only eleven guys and only winning one game that year, then only winning [five] games last year, now going eleven games straight again not winning, it’s certainly a high point,” Niermeyer said. “I think the tempo was much higher today. … If we can bring that energy to this weekend, I think we’ll have a fighting chance for sure.”
After logging the first win of the season to improve to 1-12, Central Michigan will now look ahead to its series against Aquinas College in hopes of continuing its success. They will play at home in Martin Arena this Friday, then will travel to Aquinas on Saturday.
