KALAMAZOO, Mich. – After picking up a pair of wins to start its 2026-27 campaign, the Western Michigan hockey team climbed up to No. 6 in both the USCHO and USA Hockey polls which were released on Monday. The rankings continue WMU's run of having been ranked inside of the nation's top-10 since November of 2024.
 
The top four of Denver, Michigan, Michigan State and North Dakota remained unchanged in both polls, with Wisconsin checking in at number five. Five NCHC teams were ranked this week, with WMU joined in the polls by DU, UND, Minnesota Duluth (#9) and Colorado College (#12/13). St. Thomas, Omaha and St. Cloud State all received votes.
 
The Brown and Gold are coming off of a dominant first week of play, sweeping a home-and-home against Ferris State with 6-0 and 5-1 victories.
 
Western Michigan continues non-conference play this week with a home-and-home series against Notre Dame. The Broncos and Fighting Irish are slated to meet at Lawson Arena at 7 pm on Friday, and then down in South Bend at 6 pm on Saturday.
 
The 2026-27 campaign marks the Final Season at historic Lawson Arena for Western Michigan hockey. Named after the founding father of the program, Harry W. Lawson, the arena has been home to Bronco hockey since the 1974-75 season. All throughout the 2026-27 season, WMU hockey will be celebrating its five-plus decades at Lawson Arena with special events, giveaways and promotions. Secure your tickets and help us celebrate the Final Season at Lawson Arena by going to wmubroncos.com/tickets.