WILLISTON, N.D. (February 26, 2020) – The Williston State College men’s hockey team had a successful conclusion to the 2020 season last week.

The Tetons had several milestone moments over the past several weeks, ending with a 4-1 record in their final games. Williston State finished the season on a four-game winning streak, sweeping through the University of Jamestown by scores of 8-4 and 7-1. WSC also earned a 9-3 win over Dakota College – Bottineau and a dramatic 4-3 overtime win over Montana State to end the season in Glasgow, Mont. The Tetons also fell 5-2 in a game against Dakota College. 

Some stats of note during the five-game winning streak included the Tetons taking 235 shots, scoring 30 goals in that time. WSC held a 30-16 scoring edge during the win streak. 

While the team success to end the year was a sure highlight for the Williston program, several individuals also had impressive performances in the season-ending winning streak. For instance, the Tetons have a new all-time leading scorer as Blake Zabinski scored his 100^th-career point for Williston against Dakota College – Bottineau. Zabinski would go on to finish the season with 104 points to firmly sit as the Tetons’ all-time leading scorer. . Additionally, Brady Klassen earned his first college victory against the University of Jamestown.

Several individuals will also have the opportunity to continue their intercollegiate careers,  thanks to their success with Williston. James Grosklaus will continue playing for the University of Utah, while Wade Auger will play at the University of Jamestown. Thomas King will skate in the desert, playing for the University of Nevada – Las Vegas (UNLV). All of the players are sophomores, with their entire sophomore core advancing on in their careers thanks to their tutelage at Williston. 

Success of players is always a sign of a healthy intercollegiate program but coaching is a critical part of all successful programs. Tetons coach John Bowkus earned his 100^th college win in the win over Dakota College – Bottineau, achieving a moment that has defined consistency and steady determination in his time leading Williston State on the ice. Bowkus just concluded his sixth season leading the Tetons, coming to Williston State after a long career as a successful hockey coach at a variety of levels. 

Williston State finished the 2019-20 season with an overall record of 13-26. Notable moments throughout the season included sweeping through the Big Mountain Classic Showcase tournament in January, earning wins over several top-ranked teams while going 4-0. Williston went 13-19 against ACHA Division-II programs, while going 0-7 with several close games in ACHA Division-I games.