GCU Lopes Crowned NCRHA D1 NATIONAL Champions!

In an electrifying showdown that will be remembered for years to come, the Grand Canyon University (GCU) Lopes emerged as the 2024 NCRHA Division 1 Roller Hockey Champions, defeating the Lindenwood Lions in a thrilling triple-overtime battle with a final score of 2-1.

This victory is more than just a title; it's a testament to the power of belief and determination. Just two years since its inception, the GCU Lopes Roller Club has etched its name into the history books as national champions, embodying the spirit of the underdog and inspiring countless others along the way.

Aydin Schwetz, the team's Captain and Founder, dared to dream big when he left Lindenwood University two years ago in pursuit of something greater. Back then, skeptics may have called him foolish, but today, he stands tall as a national champion. Schwetz's vision attracted players from across the country—from Colombia to Tennessee and all the way up to Vancouver—who rallied together to turn a dream into reality.

The team's diversity was its strength, with players bringing unique styles of play that blended into a cohesive and formidable unit. Guided by Head Coach Rick Garvey, whose unwavering belief never faltered, the Lopes epitomized the essence of teamwork and resilience.

Let's dive into the championship game:

First Period:

The opening period was a classic exchange as both teams sized each other up and gauged the game's tempo. Lindenwood dominated the shot count, outshooting GCU 6 to 3, but both goaltenders came up with crucial saves to keep the score level.

Second Period:

GCU broke the deadlock with a power play goal to take a 1-0 lead. Brydon Frisk found the back of the net with a well-executed shot, assisted by Aydin Schwetz. It was a beautifully orchestrated power play that caught Lindenwood's penalty kill off guard, allowing Frisk to find space in a prime shooting lane.

Third Period:

The Lopes aimed to hold onto their narrow lead, but a penalty put them on the back foot, giving Lindenwood a crucial power play opportunity. With under two minutes left in regulation, Christian Acosta emerged as the hero for Lindenwood, rifling a top-shelf shot to tie the game at 1-1.

Overtime Dramas:

As the clock ticked through two intense, scoreless overtime periods, both teams intensified their efforts to find the elusive sudden-death goal. The goaltenders, Hager and Currie, emerged as the standout performers of overtime, making spectacular saves—including numerous challenging 2-on-1 situations—to keep their teams alive in the championship battle.

Triple Overtime Triumph:

Finally, at 2:47 in the third overtime period, Dylan Guy , assisted by Nick Ettilebrick sealed GCU's destiny with the game-winning goal—a moment that will forever be etched in the hearts of players and fans alike.

The journey from underdog to champion is complete. The GCU Lopes' victory serves as a powerful reminder that with belief, dedication, and a shared dream, anything is possible. Congratulations to the 2024 NCRHA Division 1 Roller Hockey Champions—the Grand Canyon University Lopes! This triumph is not just a win for the team, but a win for the spirit of perseverance and passion that fuels the sport we love.

Hat's off to these two Tendys battling it out in one of the best NCRHA games in history. With over 75 shots and only 3 Goals allowed these two beautys deserve a standing ovation. 

Currie, YOU'RE A BAD BAD MAN! YOU'RE GONNA BE A PROBBBBLEMM!

Hager, YOU'RE A LEGEND AND ALWAYS SHOWS OUT ON THE BIGGEST STAGE!