On the scoreboard there was disappointment for the Badger Lightning varsity hockey team Tuesday night at the Poppy Waterman Ice Arena.
But most left with a smile and perhaps a few tears as the Lightning celebrated its seniors in their penultimate home game.
Forwards Kaylee Engel; Allison Knull; Ellie Goethel and Baylee Babcock along with defenders Emily Patton and Jordann Meinhardt received recognition before the game, introduced together as opposed to the traditional starting line, then between periods.
During the first periods the players remained on the ice as the six were honored by their teammates and after the second period there was more recognition as Announcer Eric Knull introduced and read a questionnaire/bio filled out by the players.
The Black River Falls Tigers denied the home team its fifth win of the season which would have been a great finish.
For the most part, the Lightning showed a competitive side and had some chanc
es in a back and forth game.
While the six graduating players, including captain Engel who will continue to play at the college level, will certainly be missed, freshman Lani Seljie showed the team is being left in capable hands, scoring the team’s only goal – the first goal of the contest. Fellow freshman Eryn Benson collected an assist on the goal, but it was all Tigers after that – at least on the scoreboard
Final Score: Black River Falls Tigers 8 @ Badger Lightning 1
Next up for the Lightning is its final home game Tuesday against Beaver Dam and a trip to Ozaukee to wrap up the regular season against the Lakeshore Lightning on Valentine’s Day.
Playoff assignments will likely be determined next weekend. Unfortunately, the Lightning will almost for sure be opening the post season on the road.
Sauk Hockey 