In this week’s episode of Ferris Sports Update, host Rob Bentley welcomes Ferris Mens Head Basketball Coach Andy Bronkema, Women’s Basketball Assistant Coach Mallory McCartney, and Hockey Assistant Coach Dave Cencer to recap the past week of Bulldog Athletics and give us a look ahead to the coming weeks of the regular season for these sports.
Men’s Basketball
For our first guest, Rob welcomes Men’s Basketball Head Coach Andy Bronkema to discuss the team’s recent matchups. The Bulldogs just returned from the Upper Peninsula after facing Michigan Tech and Northern Michigan, two teams that always provide a tough challenge. Andy noted that the trip is always competitive, giving the team a chance to showcase its talent.
With only four games left in the regular season, the Bulldogs are still in the hunt and looking to improve. Thursday’s game against Michigan Tech was a significant test, as Tech boasts a talented lineup with several standout players. Andy highlighted Owen Hardy’s performance, noting his hard work in practice has earned him more playing time. The first half was tightly contested, ending in a 31-31 tie, but Ferris struggled to capitalize on key shots, ultimately falling 75-63.
On Saturday, the Bulldogs took on Northern Michigan in what Andy described as one of the best atmospheres the team has played in, thanks to Northern’s new arena and a packed crowd. He felt the team played with more emotional cohesion compared to the Tech game. Ferris led by six at halftime, but Northern surged ahead in the second half. Determined to regain control, the Bulldogs executed their game plan and secured a 91-84 victory. Andy credited Reece Hazelton and Ethan Erickson for their contributions.
Looking ahead, Ferris will host Purdue Northwest on Thursday and Wisconsin-Parkside on Saturday. Thursday’s game will be a Red Out for Women’s Heart Health, while Saturday marks Senior Night, celebrating the team’s graduating players.
Women’s Basketball
Next, Rob welcomed Women’s Basketball Assistant Coach Mallory McCartney to break down the team’s latest performances. Mallory noted that this season has flown by due to a packed schedule, including a challenging four-game road stretch.
In Thursday’s game against Michigan Tech, the Bulldogs started strong, leading by six before Tech took a 33-31 advantage at halftime. Mallory praised standout performances from Mya Hiram, Elle Irwin, Kenzie Bowers, and Mia Riley, particularly their decision-making and ability to push the pace. The Bulldogs regained the lead in the fourth quarter and never looked back, securing a 70-67 win.
Against Northern Michigan on Saturday, Mallory emphasized the importance of tightening up the defense, but the team struggled to contain Northern’s offense and fell 75-48. Looking ahead, the Bulldogs will host Purdue Northwest on Thursday for the Red Out game and Wisconsin-Parkside on Saturday for Senior Night. Mallory believes a victory would be the best way to honor the team’s seniors.
Hockey
The Bulldog hockey team recently returned from a road series and is gearing up for the final stretch of the season. Assistant Coach Dave Cencer discussed the team’s recent performances, player highlights, and postseason implications.
In Friday’s matchup against Lake Superior State, the Bulldogs faced a tough, physical opponent. Despite an early push from Lake State, Ferris responded well, particularly on the power play. Cole Burtch led the way with two goals and an assist, while Noah West delivered a strong defensive effort. The game ended in overtime, with the Bulldogs winning 3-2, earning Ferris a crucial point.
On Saturday, the Bulldogs displayed one of their best offensive performances of the season, firing over 50 shots and scoring three goals. However, defensive lapses proved costly. Zach Faremouth scored a key power-play goal, but the Bulldogs ultimately couldn’t close out the game losing 5-3.
With four games remaining, every matchup carries significant weight in the conference standings. The addition of Augustana has shifted rankings to emphasize winning percentage over total points. The Bulldogs have a strong rivalry with Lake Superior State, winning five of the last seven meetings.
Looking ahead, Ferris will travel to Michigan Tech for its final two road games, with both teams closely ranked in the standings. While in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the team will also host a youth clinic in Petoskey, engaging with the community before hitting the ice. The regular season will conclude at home with Senior Night against Northern Michigan, where the team will honor both its graduating players and Coach Daniels.
Conclusion
As the regular season nears its end, Ferris State’s basketball and hockey teams are making their final push toward postseason success. With key matchups ahead, every game carries added significance, whether securing a higher seed, honoring seniors, or playing for a cause. The Bulldogs are ready to rise to the challenge, and fans can look forward to an exciting finish to the season. Stay tuned for more updates and coverage on Ferris Sports Update!