The University of Denver’s hockey team, the Pioneers, drew a massive crowd of students and fans to bars like The Pioneer Bar for their Frozen Four semifinal game against Western Michigan. With no football team, the success of the hockey team means everything to the university community. Current seniors were hoping for a third national title in four years, with even parents flying in to watch the game. Despite DU rallying to tie the score and send the game to overtime, Western Michigan scored early in the second overtime period to secure the win and end the Pioneers’ season.
While the loss was heart-breaking, the fan base remains strong and supportive. Students and parents alike expressed their love for the program’s tradition and championship wins. The Pioneers have a rich history, boasting 10 national titles in NCAA men’s hockey. The unity and excitement brought by the team to the student body were evident in the turnout at the bar for the game.
The disappointment of the loss may be temporary, but the impact of the hockey team on the community is lasting. Students like Ava Peters, originally from Kansas City, have developed a newfound appreciation for hockey through their experience at DU. The team serves as a unifying force, bringing the student body together to celebrate their successes and support them through defeats.
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