MADISON, Wis. – The Bemidji State University Women's Hockey team fell to No. 1 University of Wisconsin, 7-0, in game one of their Western Collegiate Hockey Association Quarterfinal series opener at LaBahn Arena in Madison, Wis. The Badgers scored three goals in the first period, including two on the power play, and added four more in the second. Sophomore Kaitlin Groess made 44 saves in goal, despite allowing seven goals.
 
The first period began with Bemidji State winning the opening faceoff, but the Badgers soon took control. Wisconsin's Potter opened the scoring at 12:56 with a power-play goal, assisted by Harvey and McNaughton. Hall extended the lead for the Badgers at 11:06, scoring at even strength with help from Eden and Jones. As the period progressed, the Badgers capitalized again on a power play at 4:18, when Šapovalivová found the back of the net, assisted by Simms and Harvey. Despite Bemidji State's efforts, including multiple saves by Groess, the Badgers ended the period leading 3-0.
 
The Badgers extended their lead in the second period with a series of goals, beginning with Simms scoring unassisted at 18:38. Scannell added another goal shortly thereafter at 17:18, assisted by Picard and Murphy. Šapovalivová continued Wisconsin's momentum, scoring at 12:21 with help from Edwards. Despite Bemidji State's efforts, including a penalty shot attempt by Armstrong, the Badgers maintained their defensive stance. Edwards capped the period with a goal at 00:06, assisted by Hall and Harvey, bringing the score to 7-0.
 
The Badgers maintained control throughout the third period, showcasing an aggressive offensive strategy against Bemidji State. Groess made several crucial saves for the visitors, denying multiple attempts from the Badgers, including shots by Picard and Gorbatenko. Despite numerous opportunities, Bemidji State could not capitalize, even during a late power play after Scannell's tripping penalty. The period ended scoreless, with the Badgers securing a decisive 7–0 victory.
 
Bemidji State will fight to keep its season alive and extend the series to game three when the two teams meet again for game two at 3:02 p.m.
 
For more information on the Bemidji State women's hockey program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on X or Instagram, or like them on Facebook.
 
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men's hockey membership in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and women's hockey membership in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).
 
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