Men's Ice Hockey | October 31, 2017

KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan hockey alum Chase Balisy became the 26th player in program history to play in the National Hockey League after making his debut for the Florida Panthers on Saturday night.

Balisy, 25, suited up for the Panthers and had 10:47 of ice time, including 1:01 on the penalty kill in a 3-2 shootout loss to the Detroit Red Wings. The Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif., native also recorded two shots on goal and one hit. He also played in Monday night's 8-5 loss to Tampa Bay, seeing 11:02 of ice time.

"One of our mottos this year is 'Everything Matters' and Chase exemplified that in his time at Western Michigan from his focus on the ice, in practice and in the classroom," said head coach Andy Murray. "We are very proud of him for making his debut."

Balisy was a player key to WMU's turnaround under head coach Jeff Blashill and Murray. He never missed a game in his Bronco hockey career, playing in 161 total games. He tallied 49 goals and 80 assists for 129 career points. He helped Western Michigan to the 2012 Central Collegiate Hockey Association Tournament Championship, netting the game-winning goal. Balisy became the first Bronco in program history to earn honors in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference after he was named Second Team All-NCHC during the 2013-14 season, also garnering Academic All-NCHC Honors.

Western Michigan is back in action on Friday and Saturday, hosting No. 1 Denver at 7:05 p.m. on both nights. Tickets are available by calling 1-888-4-WMUTIX and online at wmubroncos.com/tickets.