Hockey's historic playoff run ends in heartbreaking overtime loss
The No. 2-seeded Augustana hockey team’s first postseason run ended with a hard-fought, best-of-three series against Bemidji State in the first round of the CCHA playoffs. The Vikings concluded their season with an overall record of 18–13–4 and a 9–5–2 conference record. The three-game showdown was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts that showcased the Vikings' resilience but ended with a heartbreaking overtime loss.
In the opening game on March 7, Augustana rallied in the third period to secure a 3–1 victory, marking its first playoff win in program history. After falling behind on a short-handed goal by Bemidji State's Kirklan Irey in the second period, the Vikings responded with three unanswered goals in five minutes. Senior forward Simon Falk ignited the comeback with a goal at 3:50 of the third, followed by sophomore defenseman Owen Baumgartner netting the game-winner just three minutes later. Junior forward Colton Friesen added insurance to seal the win, while sophomore goaltender Josh Kotai stood tall with 18 saves.
“I thought our guys came to the rink with a great demeanor,” head coach Garrett Raboin said. “There was some question as to how they would respond after the week off, but I was really pleased with our first game. I felt like our guys stayed composed, poised and confident this evening, and I felt our crowd propelled us to three quick goals in an odd way to end the game.”
The second game on March 8 saw the Vikings fall 4–3 despite a valiant effort. Bemidji State jumped out to a 2–0 lead before junior forward Quinn Rudrud and Falk responded to tie the game late in the second period. However, the Beavers struck twice early in the third, and despite a goal from freshman forward Nace Langus at 9:20, Augustana could not complete the comeback. Kotai faced a barrage of 34 shots, making 30 saves in a losing effort.
The decisive third game on March 9 was a thriller that extended into overtime. Augustana struck back twice after an early power-play goal by Bemidji State's Jackson Jutting, with sophomore forward Hunter Bischoff leading the charge. Bischoff's pair of goals, assisted by Baumgartner and sophomore forward Brett Meerman, gave the Vikings a 2–1 lead heading into the final period, but a late goal by Bemidji State's Noah Quinn tied the game. Bemidji State’s Adam Flammang delivered the knockout blow in overtime, ending Augustana's season with a 3–2 defeat. Kotai made 27 saves in the loss.
“We knew that if we played the right way, we would be rewarded at the end,” Bischoff said. “We were just trying to get to the front of the net. On the first one, I was just trying to get there, and Brett Meerman made a great play and found my stick there. On the second one, I got a nice pass from Owen Baumgartner. It was a little behind me, but I was able to gather it and throw it on the net.”
Despite the disappointing finish, the season showcased key contributions from emerging players. Bischoff's offensive surge in the final game highlighted his development, while veterans like Falk and Baumgartner consistently delivered under pressure. Kotai remained a steady presence between the pipes, making crucial saves throughout the series.
“I find that my preparation is what leads to me having the most confidence and ultimately comfort in my game and belief in my abilities,” Kotai said. “I think the combination of preparation and a positive belief system has been helpful for me to feel less nerves and elevate my game in the most important moments of a game.”
Augustana's record reflects a season of growth and competitiveness in just its second year as a Division I program. The Vikings demonstrated their ability to compete against well-established programs while continuing to develop their identity on the ice. This season marked the first of conference play, as well as the Vikings receiving their first-ever national ranking after their 1–0–1 weekend against Bowling Green in late January. The team was voted as No. 19 in the U.S. College Hockey Online poll after receiving 80 points that week.
“I am torn up inside for our guys, especially the seniors and the guys leaving the program,” Raboin said following the loss in game three. “I am proud of our guys. It is the toughest day of the year without a doubt, and I think our guys should be pretty proud of the year they’ve had and how they represented this university.”
With a strong core returning and the experience of a postseason battle under their belts, Augustana looks ahead to a bright future in Division I hockey.
