KALAMAZOO, Mich. – The Western Michigan hockey program is gearing up for a big weekend at Lawson Arena, as the Broncos are set to host an alumni weekend in honor of 50 years of varsity hockey.
Beginning with Friday, Jan. 26, former WMU captain Danny DeKeyser will be honored prior to the game with his WMU Athletics Hall of Fame banner being revealed.
DeKeyser played for the Broncos from 2010-13, becoming a two-time All-American and two-time All-CCHA performer. After being named the CCHA Defensive Defenseman of the Year in back-to-back seasons to end his college career, he went on to play 10 seasons in the NHL, surpassing 500 games with the Detroit Red Wings.
Outside of DeKeyser's Hall of Fame induction, WMU Hall of Famers Bernie Saunders and Rob Hodge will participate in a ceremonial puck drop prior to Friday's game. Saunders was inducted in 1994, while Hodge got the nod in 2008.
Hodge took the ice for the Broncos from 1973-76, while Saunders wore the Brown and Gold from 1975-79. Hodge had an excellent career, amassing 144 points in just 78 games. He scored 79 goals and dished out 65 assists. Saunders played in 140 games for the Broncos, producing 154 points on 76 goals and 78 assists.
During the first intermission of Saturday's game, WMU will welcome all former players and coaches onto the ice to recognize their contributions to Western Michigan hockey over the last 50 seasons.
Limited tickets still remain for this weekend's series against Colorado College. To purchase tickets, visit wmubroncos.com/tickets or call the ticket office at 1-888-496-8849.
FULL SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, JANUARY 26
- Danny DeKeyser Pre-Game Hall of Fame Banner Reveal
- Ceremonial Puck Drop with WMU Hockey Hall of Famers Rob Hodge and Bernie Saunders
SATURDAY, JANUARY 27
- First Intermission On-Ice Alumni Recognition
