After winning last week’s Middle Atlantic Conference semifinal matchup against Alvernia, Wilkes women’s hockey was back in action for the championship game. On home ice as the first seed, the Colonels came into the game on a 16 game winning streak. 

The Colonels faced off against Arcadia, who beat Lebanon Valley to make it to the MAC championship. It was a high stakes affair, as both teams knew that a win would secure a ticket to the NCAA Division III national championship tournament. 

Wilkes came out with a 2-1 win over the Knights, and now moves on to the NCAA DIII National Championship tournament against an opponent that is to be announced. 

Arcadia found the back of the net in the first period, making it a 1-0 Knights lead. Gulla White scored the opener, with Ariel Williamson and Morganne Dee assisting on the play. The Knights would take the lead into the second period, and eventually the third period as well, keeping the Colonels scoreless through 40 minutes of play. 

In the third period, it only took the Colonels 26 seconds to find an equalizer. Haylee Bouchard found the twine to level things up at a goal a piece. Tilly Wierdsma and Anneke Bouma assisted on the goal. 

Less than eight minutes later, Ainsley Wescott scored the goal that made it a 2-1 contest, with Bella Kaczorowski assisting. Wilkes’ second goal would prove to be the game winner, with the Colonels being able to keep the Knights at bay for the remainder of the contest. 

After it was finished, the Colonels were MAC champions in the first year of the tournament. It’s also a first conference championship win for the program.

For the Colonels, Audrey Milne was named MVP of the game, having a great game in net. Making 20 saves on 21 shots, Milne was able to get her 19th win of the season. Wilkes improves to 22-4-1 on the season, with a MAC record of 18-2-1, extending their 16 game undefeated streak. 

In net for the Knights, Hannah Bergeron was solid as well, allowing two goals on 29 shots. Arcadia finishes their season with a 20-4-3 record, going 17-2-2 in conference play. 

The Colonels will move on to the national championships, with the opponent, venue and times to be determined in the coming days. 

For more information about Wilkes Women’s Hockey, stay tuned to The Beacon and visit www.gowilkesu.com