After playing only two games in October, November was a huge month for the Northern Arizona University ACHA Division II team as the IceJacks had nine games scheduled in 24 days.

After the dust cleared, NAU finished the month 7-2-0.

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“The group came together,” said NAU assistant coach Kris Walsh. “Overall, the month was a success, putting us into good position for the spring semester.”

As of Dec. 10, the team sits ranked fifth in the West Region with eight games remaining.

“The goal is to be seated in the top two at the end of the regular season to avoid the trip to Regionals in Boise,” Walsh said. “This will be no small task with teams like Metro State, Northern Colorado and Dakota College on the schedule. All three teams are in the top 15, but I feel that a good spring semester will transfer to a good position moving into playoffs.”

The semester break also comes at a good time as the IceJacks have several players banged up from the first half. The break will allow them to fully recover from their minor injuries.

“We have had to rely on our depth to get through this semester and they have come through and shined,” Walsh said. “This is a testament to our leadership group the past few years. With the exit of senior forwards Lucas Lomax, Alex Shupe and Reise Kieffer in December, we will continue to rely on our leadership and depth to carry us through the season.

“On behalf of the entire organization, we would like to thank Lucas, Alex and Reise on exceptional careers as IceJacks. Forever family.”

Led by captains Jordan Nolan, Rayce Miller, Malachi Bushey and Nick Ligocki, the coaching staff has high expectations that NAU will compete in the playoffs and beyond.

— Matt Mackinder

(Dec. 30, 2019)