Throughout his tenure with the Black and Gold, local talent and former Hancock Bulldogs hockey standout, Alex Nordstrom, encountered a formidable journey in securing a consistent place within the Michigan Tech Huskies hockey team. As the 2023-24 season unfolded, he discovered his rhythm while playing alongside senior centre Blais Richartz and freshman winger Henry Bartle, with the trio becoming a pivotal element in the Huskies’ attainment of their third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.
In the prior season, Nordstrom only participated in 16 games, including some as a defenceman, a position that did not align naturally with his abilities. However, this season, he competed in 28 games, excelling in his preferred role as a forward. His diligence and progression did not go unnoticed, as Nordstrom articulated that this season brought him a heightened sense of enjoyment from a hockey standpoint, emphasising the gratification of consistently contributing to the team’s lineup.
As a native of the Copper Country, securing a permanent place in the Huskies’ lineup was a dream actualised for Nordstrom. He expressed his elation at the opportunity to inspire young local fans, just as he once looked up to his favourite players in the past. After demonstrating his prowess by achieving over 50 points in every season with the Bulldogs, followed by engagements in various hockey leagues, Nordstrom returned to the area to pursue further development at the collegiate level, recognising the rigorous nature of college hockey. His unwavering perseverance enabled him to surmount the challenges, thereby enhancing the Huskies’ success and securing a place in the team’s lineup.
Scoring his inaugural career goal in a game against St. Thomas, Nordstrom conveyed his relief and jubilation at this significant milestone, underscoring the rewarding sensation of witnessing the puck finally hit the back of the net. His performances alongside Richartz and Bartle were imperative in the Huskies’ triumphs, showcasing the line’s consistent capacity to create scoring opportunities, augmenting their confidence and bolstering the team’s positive momentum.
The experience of competing at home in front of an enthusiastic crowd and ardent band was indelible for Nordstrom, who cherished the immense support they received during the playoff series. The opportunity to contend for a championship title against the Bemidji State Beavers stood as another notable highlight for Nordstrom, who contributed to his team’s victory and celebrated the collective achievement of triumphing in a collegiate playoff game.
Despite the challenging defeat in the NCAA Regional game against No. 1 Boston College, Nordstrom remains sanguine regarding the team’s potential to clinch a breakthrough victory in the NCAA Tournament, underscoring the paramount significance of confidence and a concentrated gameplay approach.
Alex Nordstrom’s odyssey from a local luminary to a crucial player for the Michigan Tech Huskies not only attests to his commitment and tenacity, but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes in the community. His contributions and unwavering resolve have unquestionably wielded a significant impact on the team’s performance and overall triumph, solidifying his integral role within the Huskies’ hockey team.