After UB’s Student Association (SA) derecognized the UB men's and women’s ice hockey teams in Oct. 2024, the future of the Bulls on the ice remained unclear following the end of their ‘23-’24 season. After seven months of waiting and two months of inactivity, it was announced in December that the two teams were eligible to compete again.
Due to the team's inactivity during the fall semester, the men’s ice hockey team was forced to shorten their season. Along with time constraints, rink availability issues led the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) team to remain inactive for the remainder of the season, though they're expected to return to the ice next season.
Despite the obstacles they have faced, the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) team kicked off their season on Jan. 17.
Since their debut game, which ended in a tight 2-1 overtime defeat against St. Bonaventure, UB has been hot on the ice. On Jan. 26, the Bulls hosted the Binghamton Bearcats and earned a 5-0 victory. Goals came from forward William Bienvenue, two from center Matt Tullo, and two from forward/defenseman Anthony Coty. Gavin Kreutzer held solid in the net, securing the shutout.
The Bulls then hosted Niagara on Jan. 28, taking them down 4-3. With two goals from forward Matt Bielinski, a goal from forward Jack Gallagher, and another from forward/defenseman Anthony Coty.
The team then traveled to Cortland on Jan. 31, defeating the Red Dragons 5-2. In an outstanding performance, forward Ryan Petterson recorded a hat trick, with additional goals from forwards Eduard Dovgan and Matt Bielinski.
AAU’s winning streak remains alive as they take full advantage of their return to the rink
The sports desk can be reached at sports@ubspectrum.com
