SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Hamline (21-5-1) secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Endicott (21-5-2) at home in the first round of the NCAA DIII Women's Ice Hockey Championships. The home team's defense was impenetrable, allowing only 19 shots on goal, while its offense capitalized with a power-play goal. 

The game began with Hamline exerting early pressure through multiple faceoff wins by Iyla Ryskamp, setting the tone for a competitive first period. Despite several attempts on goal, including shots from Abigail Chamernick and Annabel Mehta, Lauren Ferrari stood firm in the Endicott net, denying the Pipers any scoring opportunities. Hamline capitalized on power plays throughout the period, maintaining offensive momentum but failing to convert as Endicott's defense held steady. Kendra Nordick was reliable in goal for the Pipers, making key saves to keep the opposition scoreless. As the period concluded, the score remained tied at 0–0, with Hamline dominating the shot count but unable to break through.

Hamline set the tone early in the second period with a series of successful faceoffs and consistent offensive pressure. After several near-misses and key saves by Endicott's Lauren Ferrari, Hamline's persistence paid off at 7:56 when Nina Thorson scored the first goal of the game. Thorson's goal, assisted by Kaiya Sandy and Brooke Klemz, broke the deadlock, giving the Pipers a crucial lead. Despite being down a player due to penalties, Hamline's defense remained resilient, effectively staving off Endicott's power play opportunities. Nordick's saves maintained the lead, while Hamline continued to press offensively. The period concluded with Hamline holding a 1–0 advantage, maintaining its lead heading into the final period.

Hamline capitalized on a power-play opportunity early in the third period when Ashlyn Abrahamson scored, assisted by Chamernick and Ryskamp, to extend the lead to 2–0. The team's defense, anchored by Nordick, thwarted several attempts from Endicott, maintaining the momentum. As the period progressed, Hamline continued to control the tempo. With just under two minutes remaining, Abrahamson secured the outcome with an empty-net goal, bringing the score to 3–0. The game concluded with Hamline maintaining a shutout, solidifying its victory.

Abrahamson scored two goals, including one on the power play, on just two shots. Ryskamp added an assist and excelled in the faceoff circle by winning 23 of 25 draws, achieving a 92 percent faceoff success rate. Thorson netted a goal that proved to be the game-winner while contributing a +1 rating. Nordick held strong in goal with 19 saves, securing a shutout for the team.

The Pipers will travel to Northfield, Vermont to take on No. 2 Norwich in the Quarterfinal round on Saturday, March 21 at 2 PM CST.