From Waldorf University Athletics
MASON CITY, Iowa – The new era of Warriors D1 Hockey began with a 7-6 exhibition win over the Dordt Defenders Saturday, September 5 at the new permanent home of the Warriors, Mason City Arena, and under the direction of new head coach Cliff Cook.
The Warriors jumped out to a 2-0 1st period lead on goals from Sophomore Arturas Laurynavichus (assisted by Jaden Aguilera and Brandon Piwko) and Freshman Rylan Yost (assisted by Gunner Vignaroli and Matus Jonas).
The Defenders rallied back in the 2nd period, cutting the Warriors lead to one despite goals from Freshmen Cole Schneider and Brett Lesage (assisted by Gunner Vignaroli).
The Warriors looked to poised to break the game wide open in the third period, with early goals from Freshman Piwko (assisted by Aguilera and Laurynavichus) and Junior Zak Molstad (assisted by Dominic Toews and Devin Carney) to push the lead to three goals, but the Defenders fought back yet again, scoring three straight to tie the game at 6-6. Just 14 seconds after Dordt tied the game, Lesage (assisted by Jacob Patterson) scored his second of the game, which proved to be the game-winner.
All three Warriors goaltenders saw action in the game with Senior starter Matthew Loney playing the most minutes after returning to the game in the third period due to an injury to Junior Andrew Tworkowski. Loney faced a total of 5 shots in a little over 20 minutes, not giving up a goal, while Senior Vaughn Holbeche gave up three goals on 13 shots in 20 minutes and Tworkowski also gave up three goals on 10 shots.
The Warriors begin the regular season Sept. 12-13, hosting the McKendree University Bearcats at Mason City Arena. Friday’s puck drop is 7 pm and Saturday’s is 2 pm. Tickets are free all season by logging on to www.waldorf.edu/hockey.
(Originally published at https://www.waldorfwarriors.com/sports/acha/2026-27/releases/20260906ek7epa)
