Coming off a thrilling overtime victory against Western Michigan University in the first series of NCHC play, Omaha is looking to wrap up its 8-game homestand with positive momentum in its non-conference series with LIU.
Omaha is now 3-2-1 overall (1-1-0 in NCHC conference play). The team is just outside the top 20 in the USCHO.com weekly poll (the team would come in at 21 if the poll were extended).
In the weekly press conference, Coach Mike Gabinet said, “How we played the game [versus WMU] was a good blueprint on how to face a really good opponent. [It] showed examples of guys doing the right things on Saturday night.”
Looking ahead to the Sharks, Gabinet said, “It will be a hard match; we will get their best. They played Colorado College to a one-goal game.” He noted that LIU is “big, heavy, and competitive” but said the Mavericks will “keep bringing the focus back to ourselves.”
Sophomore defenseman Griffin Ludtke was named the NCHC Defenseman of the Week for his three-point weekend (1G, 2A). Ludtke emphasized the work that the players have been doing through the offseason and the early weeks of the season to prepare. He referenced the disappointment of how the 2022-23 season ended and working with Nolan Sullivan and Jacob Slipec during the summer, effort that Gabinet lauded when asked about him. “Your weeks and days matter,” Ludtke said.
Ludtke lit up when asked about playing with his younger brother, freshman forward Tanner Ludtke. “It’s great playing with ‘T.’ He’s adjusting super well to college.” Griffin said Tanner is his best friend and he’s enjoying sharing the locker room with him. He also noted that his “Mom and Dad are excited to have [them in] one spot,” adding that he thinks he’s only played a handful of games without at least one parent in attendance.
Griffin said that the Sharks “will definitely give us a challenge.” He noted that “It’s going to be about us again, as it is with every opponent.”
Long Island University’s website lists the team as 4-5-0, although that includes an Oct. 28 win over Saint Anselm, which is not a Division 1 program. The Mavericks and the Sharks last met in Long Island Oct. 28-29, 2022. Omaha is 4-0 all-time against LIU, including 2-1 and 7-1 victories in last year’s series.
For Fans Attending the Games in Person:
The west lot outside Baxter, Lot 25, is now open to donors only and parking passes are required to park in that lot. The north lot, Lot 27, offers free parking on a first-come, first-served basis, as is Lot 26 (west of the arena, across the creek).
A large crowd is expected this weekend, so fans should arrive early to avoid crowds, especially at the west entrance. Have digital tickets ready to scan in the Omaha Mavericks app (or add them from your MyMavs account to your phone’s wallet app). If you have questions, stop by the box office at Baxter Arena before the game or call 402-554-MAVS.
The clear bag policy remains in effect at Baxter Arena, and metal detectors are now at all entrances. All concession stands are card only (no cash).
Theme Nights:
Friday night is Military Appreciation Night, sponsored by WoodmenLife. The team is expected to wear Military Appreciation jerseys, which are being auctioned off online:
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