A Season of Celebration
The Western Michigan Broncos announced their 2025‑26 season awards, capping a campaign that saw the team finish with a 27‑win record and secure its fifth consecutive berth in the NCAA Tournament. The ceremony, held on campus, highlighted both team success and individual excellence across the roster.
At the heart of the recognition was senior goaltender Hampton Slukynsky, who earned the Rob Hodge MVP award after posting a 2.30 goals‑against average and a .915 save percentage. His performance anchored a defense that helped the Broncos maintain a strong presence in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference.
Honoring Standout Performers
Samuel Sjolund was named the Neil Smith Most Valuable Defenseman after contributing 29 points from six goals and 23 assists, while sophomore forward Grant Slukynsky captured the Vic Vanderberg Leading Scorer award with a 40‑point season. Freshman Bobby Cowan received the Susan Klop Rookie of the Year honor, tallying 24 points on five goals and 19 assists.
Other award recipients included Ty Henricks, who took the Ed Edwards Most Improved award after a 12‑point jump from his freshman year, and Liam Valente, who earned the Catherine Lawson Sportsmanship Award despite missing much of the schedule due to injury. Garrett Szydlowski was recognized with the KOHA Grinder award, and Zaccharya Wisdom captured the Bill Saunders Plus/Minus Award with a +19 rating.
Academic excellence was also celebrated, with Cole Crusberg‑Roseen receiving the Peter Ellis Academic Award and Kirk Laursen earning the Ross/Dickie Brown and Gold Award along with NCHC Distinguished Scholar‑Athlete honors. The Broncos’ coaching staff praised the blend of talent, work ethic, and community involvement that defined the season.