Michigan State University’s hockey program has announced a new nonconference matchup that will see the Spartans travel to Rochester, New York, to face Rochester Institute of Technology on October 17.
The contest is slated as a single‑game meeting rather than part of a weekend series, giving the teams a focused showdown in the heart of upstate New York.
A Strategic Nonconference Slate
In addition to the New York engagement, the Spartans are also scheduled to head to Texas for a meeting with North Dakota, expanding the geographic reach of their out‑of‑conference slate.
The upcoming game carries a special significance for assistant coach Jared DeMichiel, who spent four seasons playing for RIT between 2006 and 2010 and will now return to the campus as part of the Michigan State staff.
While the full nonconference schedule remains a work in progress, the trips to Texas and New York are confirmed components, underscoring the program’s intent to test its roster depth against diverse opponents.
The additions reflect a broader strategy by the coaching staff to schedule high‑quality opponents in regions that can provide both competitive challenge and recruiting exposure.
By arranging games in distinct locales, Michigan State aims to sharpen its roster depth, adapt to varied playing styles, and give fans in different markets a chance to see the team in action.