2025-26 Season Week 10 Recap

Week 10 of the College Hockey South season delivered a memorable mix of pride, passion, and powerhouse performances. From the 5th-Annual Veterans Cup honoring America’s heroes to key in-state rivalries across the Sunshine State, CHS teams battled for bragging rights and critical standings points as the playoff race begins to heat up.

Veterans Cup | Alabama (M3) vs Kennesaw State (M3)

The Alabama Frozen Tide entered the Veterans Cup looking to bring home their second championship in the five-year history of the tournament. Unfortunately, Alabama faced an uphill battle with a short bench, dressing only ten skaters for the opener against Kennesaw State.

Despite the disadvantage, the Tide showed grit, rallying to tie the game early in the third period. But Kennesaw’s stars took over late, with Rhys Legault recording a second-period hat trick to lead the Owls to a 5–3 win and a berth in the championship game.

Veterans Cup | Game of the Week: Middle Tennessee State (M3) vs Tennessee (M3)

In the second meeting of the season between these in-state rivals, Middle Tennessee State once again proved why they’re one of the nation’s top teams.

The Blue Raiders wasted no time, with Tommy Chunchukov opening the scoring late in the first period. From there, MTSU dominated all facets of the game, cruising to a 6–1 victory over Tennessee to advance to the Veterans Cup Final.

Veterans Cup | Third Place Game: Alabama (M3) vs Tennessee (M3)

Two of the South’s most storied programs clashed in the Veterans Cup Third Place Game, and the matchup didn’t disappoint.

Tennessee struck first — twice — building early momentum behind a strong offensive push. But Alabama refused to go away, answering both goals to tie the game before eventually taking the lead late in the second period.

The back-and-forth battle carried into the final frame, where the Ice Vols’ offense came alive. Tennessee erupted for four goals in the third period, overpowering the short-benched Frozen Tide and pulling away for a 7–5 victory to secure third place.

Veterans Cup | Championship Game: Middle Tennessee State (M3) vs Kennesaw State (M3)

MTSU entered the championship with confidence — and it showed. Captain Linden Palmer had said earlier in the week on the College Hockey Mouth Podcast that the Blue Raiders believed they were the favorites, and they proved it with a statement performance.

The Blue Raiders unleashed a relentless offensive attack, scoring 13 goals in the final, with Yuli Lima recording a hat trick and an assist. Tournament MVP Kieran Ogle added four goals and four assists in the championship effort as MTSU dominated from start to finish.

The Blue Raiders’ 13–1 win earned them their first-ever Veterans Cup title, solidifying their #1 national ranking and adding another trophy to the case.

Florida (ACDC) vs Florida State (ACDC)

In a rematch of their Battle at the Beach meeting, the Florida Gators sought revenge against their in-state rivals from Florida State — and they got it.

The Gators evened the season series with a 3–1 win at VyStar Arena, home of the ECHL’s Jacksonville Icemen. Florida continues to prove they’re a playoff contender, taking down another strong divisional opponent, while Florida State looks to regroup after a strong start to the season.

Embry-Riddle (M3) vs UCF (M3)

Two ranked teams met in a pivotal M3 matchup as #15 UCF hosted #18 Embry-Riddle. The Ice Eagles took exception to the rankings and responded with a dominant weekend performance, sweeping the Knights on the road.

ERAU opened the series with a 4–2 win, powered by Ian Holland’s 29 saves on 31 shots. They followed up with another complete effort, jumping out to a 3–0 lead before holding off a late UCF rally to secure the sweep.

With the two wins, the Ice Eagles are poised to climb the national rankings and continue their push for postseason contention.

Florida (M2) at Florida Atlantic (M2)

In the second series of the year between these two M2 powerhouses, Florida Atlantic delivered their most complete performance of the season.

After falling at the Battle at the Beach, the Owls rebounded with a strong showing at home, led by Jackson Nieuwendyk, who posted a hat trick and an assist in the opener. In Game 2, Nieuwendyk once again delivered the game-winner on the power play as FAU held the Gators scoreless through two periods to secure the shutout.

The Owls’ offense fired on all cylinders, scoring six goals in both games and sweeping the series in convincing fashion. Despite the earlier tournament loss, FAU reminded everyone they remain a legitimate contender for another national championship run.

A Weekend to Remember

Week 10 showcased everything that makes College Hockey South special — rivalries, passion, and respect for those who serve. Congratulations to all participating teams and especially to Middle Tennessee State, your 2025 Veterans Cup Champions!

ABOUT College Hockey South: Founded in 2008, College Hockey South is a 29-school, 45 team intercollegiate hockey conference spanning eight southeastern U.S. states. College Hockey South is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization.