NORTHFIELD, Vt. — Hamline (21-6-1) fell to Norwich University (26-2-0), 1–0, in a closely contested NCAA quarterfinal matchup on Saturday. Despite outshooting Norwich 32–23, Hamline was unable to convert, with the game's only goal scored in the first period.
The first period began with the Pipers securing the initial faceoff, setting the stage for competitive play. Norwich quickly gained momentum, scoring at the 1:00 mark through a deflected shot by Anna Lisac, assisted by Jordan Brady and Livia Brooks. Despite multiple attempts from Hamline, including shots from
Calie Peterson and
Iyla Ryskamp, the opposing goalie, Madison Brunet, maintained a solid defense. Hamline's power play mid-period provided an opportunity to level the score, but Norwich's defense held firm, ending the power play without a goal.
Kendra Nordick was active in goal for Hamline, making several key saves throughout the period. The first period concluded with Norwich leading 1–0.
Hamline began the second period with strong momentum, winning the initial faceoff and maintaining offensive pressure.
Abigail Chamernick and
Nina Thorson both tested Norwich's goaltender, but their shots were saved. Hamline gained a power play at 14:11, following a hooking penalty on Madison Anderson from Norwich, but despite several attempts, including blocked shots by
Ashlyn Abrahamson and Chamernick, the power play concluded without a goal. Throughout the period, Hamline continued to press, evidenced by multiple faceoff wins and frequent shots on goal. However, Norwich's defense, led by Brunet in net, held firm. The period ended with neither team able to break the stalemate, keeping the score tied at 0–0 as they headed into the final period.
Hamline started the third period with immediate offensive pressure, winning the opening faceoff and launching a shot on goal by
Ella Rothe within the first 15 seconds, though it was saved by Brunet. Despite Hamline's persistent efforts, including a power play opportunity following a penalty on Marja Linzbichler, the team was unable to convert any of its shots into goals. As the period progressed, Hamline continued to control the puck, managing several shots on goal that were consistently thwarted by Brunet's goaltending. A late timeout and the decision to pull the goalie for an extra attacker underscored the urgency of Hamline's situation. However, the period concluded with no change in the scoreboard. Hamline's efforts to equalize were unsuccessful, and the game ended with a 1–0 result in favor of Norwich.
Chamernick led the Pipers with six shots on goal, consistently pressuring the opposing defense. Rothe excelled in the faceoff circle, winning 60 percent of her draws. Ryskamp contributed with three shots and a faceoff win percentage of 58, adding to the team's offensive efforts. Nordick, in goal, recorded 22 saves, keeping the game competitive.
The Pipers concluded their season in the NCAA tournament quarterfinals with a final overall record of 21-6-1 and a MIAC conference record of 14-3-1. Congratulations to this group on an amazing season and thank you seniors for all you have done and accomplished! Go Pipers!