Coming off of a disappointing season last year, the men’s hockey team, now a combination of youth and experience, is back on the ice and ready to redeem themselves.
The Northeastern News Player of the Week and freshman goalie Brad Thiessen is one of the main reasons Husky hockey fans are hopeful this season. In their first two games, Thiessen proved to be the foundation the Huskies were looking for.
Thiessen, a true freshman, had 32 saves in his first collegiate game against No. 1 Boston College, which resulted in a 5-2 loss. Then, in his second career start against No. 10 Vermont, he tallied 24 saves and an assist on the David Strathman game-tying goal in the 2-2 tie. In both games, Thiessen was on target, making key saves and showing his true potential.
“Getting an opportunity to play right away is a challenge and that’s part of the reason I came here,” Thiessen said.
Thiessen, 20, from Aldergrove, British Columbia, came to Northeastern after playing three years in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) after graduating high school. He set a BCHL single-season record with seven shutouts, as well as posting impressive numbers including a career-high 65 saves.
“Coming here is a step up,” Thiessen said. “It’s a lot better, but not a huge difference. There are more fans and attention, and it’s a lot more fun.”
Thiessen is one of 10 freshmen to join the hockey team this season. With the new players added to the team’s experience, there are high hopes for the season. In the first two games, there was a focus on blocking shots and having a strong penalty kill, Thiessen said, but the team’s main focus was on work ethic.
“There is a great opportunity here,” Thiessen said. “We have a good chance of being a team that grows together.”
The team, although off to a 0-1-1 start, has looked better in their two opening games than in recent seasons. A strong defensive performance matched by Thiessen’s presence in net and big scoring from freshmen gave life to Husky hockey.
The Huskies play the defending Hockey East Champions Boston University, currently ranked No. 6, Friday. They face Union in their home opener and homecoming game at Matthews Arena on Saturday night. With two important games this weekend, Thiessen said his focus is on playing consistently.
“We want to win,” Thiessen said. “I don’t think many people expect anything from us now, but they will.”
– Danielle Ossher, News Correspondent
