KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan picked up right where it left off last season, ranking among the nation's best in the preseason polls. 

The preseason USA Hockey poll was released this afternoon, with WMU leading the charge. The Brown and Gold were also ranked first in the USCHO poll, which was released last week.

The Broncos collected 642 points and 22 first-place votes.  Boston University (617 points), Michigan State (612), Denver (562) and Penn State (546) rounded out the top five of the USA Hockey poll. 

The NCHC had eight teams ranked or receiving votes. Miami was the lone conference team to not be recognized in the initial preseason poll. 

The Broncos are coming off a historic season, winning a program-best 34 games. Outside of winning the National Championship, the Brown and Gold also captured the Penrose Cup and NCHC Frozen Faceoff title. Western Michigan enters the 2025-26 campaign on a 10-game win streak. 

The Broncos open the season with a home exhibition game against the USNTDP on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 6 PM. The regular season opener is set for Thursday, Oct. 9 against Ferris State. Puck drop is slated for 7 PM at Lawson Arena.