A Milestone‑Rich Season Begins
UMass Lowell’s athletics department has unveiled the full slate for the 2026‑27 men’s ice hockey season, confirming a 34‑game schedule that features a record 21 home contests at the Tsongas Center. The announcement marks the most extensive home calendar in program history and sets the stage for a campaign that blends early‑season challenges with a packed conference slate.
Opening the Campaign
The season will open with an exhibition matchup against Concordia on October 2, before the regular‑season debut on October 9 at home against Clarkson. In total, the River Hawks will navigate ten non‑conference games, eight of which pit them against ECAC rivals, providing a rigorous test before Hockey East play begins.
Homecoming and Historic New Year’s Day Games
Homecoming weekend will showcase a two‑game series versus the Arizona State Sun Devils, a matchup that adds a festive atmosphere to the schedule. Perhaps the most historic highlight is the pair of games slated for January 1 and 2, 2027, when UMass Lowell will face Princeton on New Year’s Day for the first time in program history, a milestone that underscores the team’s growing national profile.
Conference Battles and Senior Night
The non‑conference slate also includes contests against a variety of opponents, culminating in a series against Arizona State and other key rivals. Within Hockey East, the River Hawks are slated to meet Boston University, Maine, Merrimack and UMass Amherst three times apiece, a rarity that promises multiple opportunities for pivotal matchups.
Senior Night is scheduled for March 5, when the team will host Merrimack in the final regular‑season home game, giving fans a chance to honor the graduating class. The excitement will carry into the postseason, as the Hockey East opening round playoffs are set to begin on March 10.