After defeating the Ice Jacks 4-2 in the season opener two weeks ago, the Wildcats will host NAU Friday and Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. at the newly renovated Tucson Convention Center.

Although the Wildcats came out on top in the end, they were tested early by the Ice Jacks who took a 2-0 lead six minutes into the game, forcing Coach Berman to use a timeout.

The early rust for the Wildcats was not surprising as they’ve had limited ice time in the offseason due to construction at the TCC. However, the timeout paid dividends for Coach Berman and the Wildcats as the team responded with four unanswered goals in route to a 4-2 victory.

The goals were provided by John Hogan, Robbie Wilkinson, Matt Armenti and Toppie Hogan.

The Ice Jacks got their first win of the year last Friday when they defeated Utah State 3-1 on their home ice in Flagstaff. NAU scored twice in the second period courtesy of Lucas Lomax and Max Mahood.

The Ice Jacks added to their lead in the third when Reise Kieffer added a goal of his own. The goal capped off an impressive night for Kieffer who also assisted on the team’s two other goals. Kieffer’s three points are tops on the team while Jacob Pascale and Zaven Bablouzian are tied for second with two apiece.

Friday’s home opener will mark the first “1-2-3 Friday” promotion of the year. Students with a valid CatCard will have the option of $1 small sodas, $2 hot dogs and $3 domestic beers while tickets will be $2. Make sure to come early and catch the ‘new look’ Arizona Wildcats.  

Also, on Sunday, October 9th, the Arizona Coyotes NHL team will have a mixed scrimmage with the Tucson Roadrunners AHL team at the TCC. The game starts at 1:00pm. Tickets will be free for this game but they are asking for a $5 donation with all proceeds going towards the University of Arizona Hockey program!