Grand Rapids Reporter

Ferris State University's men's ice hockey team ended its playoff run with a 7-2 loss against Minnesota State Mavericks in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) Mason Cup Semifinals. The game took place at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center on March 11, marking Ferris State's longest playoff run in seven years.

The Bulldogs began strong with freshman forward Connor McGrath scoring the first goal of the match after receiving assistance from senior defenseman Matt Slick and sophomore forward Bradley Marek. However, Minnesota State quickly responded with Christian Fitzgerald tying the game before David Silye scored, giving them a lead they maintained throughout.

Despite several attempts by Ferris State to score, including hitting goal posts and missing narrowly, Minnesota State extended their lead with goals from Brendan Furry and Cade Borchardt. The Bulldogs managed to reduce the gap with a power-play goal involving Stepan Pokorny and Bradley Marek.

In the third period, Minnesota State sealed their victory with three more goals by Ondrej Pavel, Lucas Sowder, and Jake Livingstone. Although Ferris State continued to generate scoring opportunities, they could not close the gap.

Ferris State concluded their season with a record of 14-19-4 in CCHA play. They achieved several milestones this season: winning their first playoff round since 2016, securing three road sweeps against CCHA opponents, and earning victories over nationally ranked teams.