The College of Saint Benedict ice hockey team (0-0 MIAC, 1-0-0) displayed everything it had in beating the defending ACHA national champions Lindenwood University in an exhibition game today at the MAC arena in St. Cloud. In front of a rousing home crowd, the Blazers opened their season with a win, scoring in each period while holding Lindenwood scoreless on 22 attempts.

Junior Janae Coauette (Crookston, MN, Crookston) started the Blazers off in the first period, scoring on a power play at 7:51 in the first period, while being assisted by seniors Ashley Davenport (Inver Grove Heights, MN, Simley) and Stephanie Kendrick (Osceola, WI, New Richmond). The team was then able to control the puck during three power plays opportunities that Lindenwood had but was unable to convert. The Blazers held the Lions scoreless on eight power play attempts.

In the second period sophomore Gretchen Leyendecker (Rochester, MN, Lourdes) found the net unassisted, one of four shots Saint Benedict attempted that period. The Blazers continued to play smart hockey, protecting the lead into the third period where with 4:13 remaining in the game, first-year Kerri Graske (Stillwater, MN, Stillwater Area) scored her first colligate goal; putting Saint Benedict up for good 3-0. Graske was assisted on the play by Davenport.

As the third period wore down, sophomore goalie Abbie Helminen (Brighton, MI, Brighton Belle Tire) was able to withstand an onslaught of 15 shots by Lindenwood, safely securing her first shutout of the season. Helminen saved a perfect 22 of 22 shot attempts.

Head coach Pat Michaud was very pleased with the outcome of the first game of the season saying it was a great way to start out the year. “We were able to get a lot of players involved in the game, Michaud said. “The first-years contributed quite a bit, playing well while being aided by our veterans. Our veterans showed excellent leadership tonight.”

The Blazers finish up their series against Lindenwood on Sunday Nov. 2 at the MAC in St. Cloud.

Box Score