Middle Tennessee State University’s hockey team opened its 2026 season with a 0-2 record after consecutive losses to the University of Arkansas, dropping the first game 3-2 and the second 4-3 at the Ford Ice Center in Antioch, Tennessee.
Despite a refreshed roster and noticeable improvements in team chemistry, the Blue Raiders struggled to generate offense, managing only six goals across two games compared to the previous season’s total, while facing physical play and a series of penalties that hampered their momentum.
JJ Landers emerged as the offensive catalyst, contributing two goals and three assists for a total of five points, and Brady Friedman notched his first collegiate goal and added an assist, both on power‑play opportunities, while captain Tommy Chunchukov opened the scoring in Game One and goaltender Ayden Kopec posted a .912 save percentage before being pulled late in the second contest.
Season Outlook
The coaching staff emphasizes building on the emerging chemistry and sharpening the team’s scoring touch as they prepare for their next test against West Virginia University on September 12, 2026, at the Ford Ice Center.