KALAMAZOO, Mich. - The Hockey Commissioners Association (HCA) announced its first monthly awards of 2026-27, honoring Adam Benák as Co-Rookie of the Month for his play throughout October. Benák shares the honor with Vermont sophomore goaltender Jacob Oster.

Benák totaled 13 points (3G-10A) through seven games last month. The Plzen, Czechia native led all NCAA freshmen in points (13) and assists (10), and plus-minus (plus-10). The Minnesota Wild prospect also put together four multi-point efforts through the seven contests, tied for the national lead among freshmen. 

His 10 assists were the second-highest total among all NCHC skaters.

Benák's first month of collegiate hockey helped him stack up multiple honors, including two NCHC Rookie of the Week awards and the conference's Rookie of the Month award. 

The forward is the first Bronco to earn an HCA monthly honor since Tim Washe was named National Player of the Month for March/April 2025. Senior William Whitelaw was a runner-up for the Men's Forward of the Month honor after he tallied 14 points (7G-7A) in October. 

#5/5 Western Michigan hockey is set to open its conference schedule with a top-10 matchup at Ralph Engelstad Arena as it takes on #10/10 North Dakota. Game one is set for Friday, Nov. 6 at 8 p.m. ET, and the series finale is Saturday, Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. ET.

FINAL SEASON AT LAWSON
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. Throughout the 2026-27 season, WMU hockey will be celebrating its five-plus decades at Lawson Arena with special events, promotions and 'Fan Friday' giveaways. Secure your tickets and help us celebrate the Final Season at Lawson Arena at wmubroncos.com/tickets.