The University of New Brunswick (UNB) Reds men’s ice hockey team has made Canadian university hockey history by achieving a perfect regular season. This milestone was reached after securing their 30th consecutive victory over the weekend, marking them as the first team in almost twenty years to complete an undefeated season. With an impeccable 30-0 record, the Reds have surpassed the previous record set by the Western Mustangs in the 2002-03 season, where they achieved a 24-0 record.
Coach Gardiner MacDougall, who has overseen the men’s ice hockey program since 2000, expressed his pride in the team’s incredible accomplishment. With nine national titles and 19 Atlantic University Sport (AUS) titles to their name, the UNB Reds have solidified their position as a dominant force in Canadian university hockey.
The team’s recent success can be attributed to a core group of approximately eight players recruited during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Despite the challenging circumstances, these players remained dedicated and committed to the team, showcasing their resilience and determination. Moreover, many of the team’s recruits have transitioned from Canada’s major junior hockey leagues, bringing a wealth of talent and experience to the UNB Reds.
One such player is assistant captain Kade Landry, who joined the team in 2020 after playing in the Ontario Hockey League. As a fourth-year business student, Landry was attracted to the competitive nature of the AUS league and viewed UNB as the ideal choice for furthering his athletic and academic pursuits. He emphasized the team’s unwavering pursuit of excellence, with their focus set on securing another national championship.
Looking ahead, the UNB Reds have a bye during the first round of the AUS playoffs and are preparing to face their first opponent on February 23rd. Despite their outstanding regular season performance, the team remains focused on their ultimate goal of winning another national championship.
This comprehensive report by Keith Doucette offers valuable insight into the UNB Reds’ exceptional season and their steadfast commitment to success. As they continue to etch their names in Canadian university hockey history, the team’s dedication to excellence serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and fans alike.
Source:
Doucette, Keith. “UNB Men’s Hockey Team Wins 30 Consecutive Games for Perfect Regular Season.” Global News, 12 Feb. 2024, (insert the URL of the original article).