We Have Home Ice Covered
UI7 Newsroom is the Home Station for Illinois Hockey.
Watch all live home games on UI7 Newsroom.
ILLINOIS HOCKEY
NEXT GAME
Rutgers Vs. Illinois
Illinois Ice Arena, Champaign, Illinois
Illinois hockey is back on UI7 Newsroom – the home of Fighting Illini hockey. This season, fans can look forward to full coverage of every Illinois home game, with broadcasts airing live from the Big Pond inside the University of Illinois Ice Arena. Whether it’s the hard hits, the speed across the ice, or the roar of the crowd, UI7 brings you closer to the action with every shift, every goal, and every save.
But this semester brings more than just the men’s team to the spotlight. For the first time, UI7 Newsroom is proud to showcase the Illinois women’s club hockey team. The Illini women will take on Arkansas in a special matchup on October 18. Puck drop for that game is scheduled for 1:30 p.m., making it a Saturday afternoon showdown you won’t want to miss.
The rest of the Illinois hockey home schedule features evening starts, with puck drop set for 7:05 p.m. unless otherwise noted. From rival clashes to statement games, each contest is another chance to see Illini hockey at its finest – and UI7 has it covered from start to finish.
Illinois hockey has long been a staple of the campus sports scene, drawing students, alumni, and community members together under the bright lights of the Ice Arena. Now, with expanded coverage that includes both the men’s and women’s teams, UI7 is proud to be the place where fans can experience every moment of the action, no matter where they are watching from.
So mark your calendars, wear your orange and blue, and get ready for a season of Illini hockey like no other. From the first drop of the puck to the final horn, UI7 Newsroom has your home ice covered.
Power Play | Season 2 | Episode 4
In this episode of Powerplay, we sit down with defenseman David Etingen to talk about stepping into a leadership role for this year’s team. Plus, we break down the weekend series matchup against Rutgers and what to watch for on the ice.
Producer Andrew Burkey
Director Nathan Gonzalez
Advisor Kenneth R. Erdey
POWER PLAY|Season 2|Episode 3
In Episode 3 of Power Play, we’re gearing up for Illinois Hockey’s battle with Roosevelt University. This week, we spotlight starting goalie Nolan Woodring—his leadership on the ice and what makes him a difference-maker for the Illini. Plus, we’ll break down who you need to watch in this weekend’s series against the Lakers and what it’ll take for Illinois to stay strong at home.
Produced by Andrew Burkey and directed by Nathan Gonzalez, with contributions from Nate Miller and Zach Shapero, this episode brings you closer to the players, the matchups, and the passion of Illini Hockey.
Power Play is your pregame show before every Illinois home game—covering the action, the stories, and the spirit of Illini hockey.
Game 2 Recap
Game 2 Recap
Roosevelt Lakers
Game 1 Recap
Illinois hockey suffered its first loss of the season Friday night, falling 3–2 to the Roosevelt Lakers in a nail-biting shootout at the University of Illinois Ice Arena.
The Illini battled hard through three periods, with David Etingen and Anthony Varrassi each netting their first goals of the season to keep the team in striking distance. Despite several late scoring chances, the game remained tied through regulation and overtime.
In the shootout, Roosevelt capitalized when it mattered most, slipping one past Nolan Woodring to seal the win. The loss drops Illinois to 4 - 1, while the Lakers leave Champaign with the upset victory.
The Illini will look to bounce back in the rematch on Saturday night.
Louisville Cardinals
Game 2 Recap
Illinois vs. Louisville – Game 2 Highlights
Saturday, September 27, 2025
The Illinois Fighting Illini capped off another sweep weekend with a 6–2 victory over the Louisville Cardinals, continuing their hot start to the season. The team’s balanced attack and strong defensive play made the difference, keeping the Cardinals at bay while generating scoring chances at both ends of the ice.
Six different players found the back of the net, showcasing the depth and versatility of the Illini roster. Zack Huebsch, Arthur Pawlik, David Etingen, Louie Iandoli, Jacob Rozanski, and Nick Scavone all recorded goals, with several marking their first scores in an Illinois sweater—a thrilling moment for both the players and fans alike.
Illinois’ offense was complemented by a disciplined defensive effort, limiting Louisville’s opportunities and controlling the pace of play throughout the game. The Illini’s special teams also played a pivotal role, converting key chances while effectively neutralizing the opposition’s power plays.
This win solidifies Illinois’ position as an early-season powerhouse in ACHA Division I men’s hockey and builds momentum heading into their next matchup. The team now turns their attention to a home game against Roosevelt University on Friday, October 3, hoping to continue their winning streak in front of their home crowd.
With contributions from both veterans and newcomers, Illinois is proving to be a team to watch this season.
Previously recorded live
Power Play|Season 2|Episode 2
In Episode 2 of Power Play, we’ve got your pregame coverage leading up to Illinois Hockey’s showdown with the Louisville Cardinals. From in-depth stories about the players and teams to the energy of Illini fans, we’ve got home ice covered.
Produced by Andrew Burkey and directed by Nathan Gonzalez, with contributions from Nate Miller and Zach Shapero, this episode dives into the matchup and the excitement surrounding Illinois Hockey.
Power Play is your go-to pregame show before every Illinois home game—bringing you closer to the action, the stories, and the spirit of Illini hockey.
Game 1 Recap
Illinois hockey kicked off their weekend series at the U of I Ice Arena in Champaign with an electrifying win over Louisville, pushing their season record to a perfect 3-0. The Illini dominated the pace of play, backed by strong offensive chemistry and a home crowd that kept the energy high from the opening puck drop.
Sophomore forward Carson Mitchell stole the spotlight, recording an Illinois hat trick. Mitchell struck first, using his speed and slick stick-handling to beat Louisville’s Luke Brzezinski for the opening goal. His second goal came in the middle frame on a power play opportunity, where he capitalized on crisp passing from his teammates. But it was his third goal, late in the third period, that sealed the game and sent the crowd to its feet. The hat trick not only highlighted Mitchell’s individual talent but also underscored his growing role as a key playmaker for Illinois this season.
Greg Etingen also found the back of the net, adding to Illinois’ offensive surge. His goal came off a quick transition, demonstrating the team’s ability to capitalize on mistakes and turn defense into scoring chances.
With this victory, Illinois continues its hot start to the season. The Illini look confident, balanced, and ready to make a statement as they defend home ice throughout the fall.
Michigan State Spartans
UI7 Newsroom is back with Power Play: Illinois Hockey, and Season 2 kicks off with an exciting premiere this week! In Episode 1, the team dives into Illinois Hockey’s opening weekend against Michigan State, breaking down key matchups, standout players, and what fans can expect this season.
The episode also features an exclusive conversation with returning fifth-year center Sasha Matveev, who shares his insights on returning to the ice and leading the team with experience and skill. Plus, reporter Zach Shapero sits down with new team captain David Ras to discuss how the Fighting Illini are shaping up for the season and the leadership role Ras is embracing this year.
Whether you’re a die-hard Illini fan or just getting to know the team, Power Play is your go-to pregame show for all the inside scoop, analysis, and player perspectives.
Catch Season 2, Episode 1 of Power Play on UI7 Newsroom before Illinois Hockey’s next home game and get ready to cheer on the Fighting Illini!
Illinois Hockey vs. Michigan State – September 20, 2025
On Saturday, September 20, 2025, the Illinois Fighting Illini faced the Michigan State Spartans in a highly anticipated matchup at the University of Illinois Ice Arena. The game was part of a weekend series that saw both teams competing fiercely on the ice.
Key Players:
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Alexander Matveev: Scored two goals, both coming off Illinois Power Plays
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John Mclaughlin with assist from Ross Jaldung and Arthur Pawlik.
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Nolan Woodring: With 35 saves with 37 shots on goal.
Looking Ahead:
Louisville Redbirds come to town next weekend. Puck drop is at 7pm. 2-game series. Friday & Saturday.
For more detailed coverage and highlights from the game, fans can visit the official ACHA Game Center.
Game highlights from September 19, 2025
POWER PLAY wins a Student Production Award from NATAS Mid-America
Original Airdate: November 9, 2024
Best Sports Program – Power Play: Produced by journalism students John Shay and Andrew Burkey, this pre-game sports show delivered insightful and engaging coverage of Illinois Hockey. Mazie Gierat (journalism), Peter Hanson (English major, journalism minor), and Caleb Noble (BS ’24, journalism) also played key roles in the show’s production.
New Episodes play Every Friday before Illinois Home Games.
New Season begins this September on UI7 Newsroom.
Power Play Returns for Another Exciting Season of Illinois Hockey
Power Play is back for the 2025-2026 Illinois Hockey season—bigger, bolder, and packed with even more insight into your favorite team. After a successful run last year, the show returns with more interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and in-depth analysis of the players and moments that define Illini Hockey.
Fan favorites Mazie Gierat and Andrew Burkey return as hosts, bringing their energy, knowledge, and love for the game to every episode. Joining the team this year is Nate Miller, who will not only contribute to Power Play but will also be on the call during live game broadcasts, giving fans an even closer look at the action on the ice.
Also new to the team is Zach Shapero, who will provide expert analysis and break down what makes this year’s Illini squad one to watch. His behind-the-scenes insight and sharp commentary will help fans understand the strategy, skill, and spirit driving this team forward.
With an expanded crew and fresh storytelling, Power Play is ready to bring viewers closer than ever to Illinois Hockey. The show returns live on UI7 Newsroom starting September 19, 2025. Don’t miss it!
Meet, connect, and share your story with the Power Play team.
We're looking for stories that matter—yours.
Do you have a unique perspective, a behind-the-scenes experience, or a moment that deserves to be heard? Whether you're an athlete, coach, fan, or someone with a deep connection to Illinois Hockey, we want to help you tell your story.
Your voice could be part of our next episode.