Finlandia Athletics

Athletics are a major component of student life at Finlandia University. Our students have the opportunity to participate and share in the excitement of 12 varsity intercollegiate sports. Finlandia offers athletic programming for females in basketball, cross country running, ice hockey, soccer, softball, and volleyball. For males, Finlandia sponsors baseball, basketball, cross country running, golf, ice hockey, and soccer.

Finlandia reinstated intercollegiate athletics in the fall of 1999 with the resurgence of men and women's basketball. The success of these programs prompted the addition of men's ice hockey and women's volleyball in the 2000-01 season. Now entering the school year of 2007-08, the Finlandia Athletic Department has expanded its programs to 12 intercollegiate sports with the addidtion of men's golf.

Student-athletes at Finlandia are given the opportunity to progress toward a degree of their choice and develop their athletic abilities in an environment that supports growth intellectually, socially, spiritually, and physically.

As well as being a member of the NCAA Division III, Finlandia men's ice hockey team is a member of the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association (MCHA), while the women's ice hockey is a member of the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA). The remaining athletic programs are currently seeking membership with several regional conferences

HANCOCK, MI - Saturday afternoon at the MTU soccer field, Finlandia University played a tough Mount Mary team. The Lion's came out ahead 1-0 when the final whistle blew.

FU forward and senior captain Adele Horrigan scored the game winning goal on a bended ball from the outside to beat the keeper. Lion freshman Shannon Feldpausch recorded her second shutout of the season saving 3 shots on net. The Lion's outshot Mount Mary 31 to 15, with the Lion's getting 9 shots on net. Sophmore sweeper Hayley Laban stood strong to hold off the Blue Angel's attack. Helping hold off the Mount Mary attack was stopper Dawn Engman, along with outside backs Samantha Lajoie and Alicia Burford.

"We came out fighting hard today and were able to work technically sound. The women stood up and played the best ball thus far and it showed in the score. I am proud of the team and the dedication they put forth on and off the field," states 5th year head coach Matt Griffith.

HANCOCK, MI – Tuesday evening at the Hurontown soccer field, Finlandia University and the Copper Country Soccer Association cosponsored a free soccer clinic to area youth. The clinic was instructed by Matt Griffith, the head men’s and women’s soccer coach for Finlandia University and assisted by Finlandia’s soccer players.

As the local soccer athletes began to fill the fields it turned out to be a huge success. Over 100 local youth attended the free clinic designed to teach the fundamentals of the game.

“This is a great way for my soccer teams to give back to the community. We always have great community support for the Finlandia soccer programs, and this was our way to say ‘Thanks!’,” stated 5th year Finlandia soccer coach Matt Griffith. “We were able to team up with the Copper Country Soccer Association to really make the clinic a success.”

HANCOCK - The Finlandia Blue Line Club will be hosting a 3 Player Scramble on Sunday, September 21, 2008 at the Calumet Golf Club, with a 10:00 a.m. shotgun start. The registration fee for the 18 hole 3 player scramble is $30.00 per person.

There will be prize money for flights, skins, door prizes, and more. Also, there will be hamburgers and hot dogs for lunch. To register, please contact the Calumet Golf Club at (906) 337-3911.

HANCOCK - The Finlandia women's soccer team traveled to Milwaukee, Wisconsin this weekend and took second place in the Mount Mary College Invitational.

In their first game, the Lions fought hard but fell to a seasoned Robert Morris College (Lake County, Ill.) team, 6-2. Freshman Mollie Schultz (Munising, Mich.) scored her first career goal for the Lions on a break away goal that found the lower right corner, off a solid left footed shot. Junior's Molly Raab and Jessica Jones made great defensive efforts in the first game.

In the second game, the Lions were able to beat a fast Mount Mary College (Milwaukee, Wis.) team 1-0. Jessica Jones (Winnipeg, Manitoba) scored the game winning goal late in the first half from outside the 18 yard line with a rocket of a shot that found the back of the net. The goal was assisted by Mollie Schultz who earned her third pint of the weekend. The Lions held off the Blue Angels relentless attack due to great defensive play from Molly Raab (Antigo, Wis.) and Hayley Laban (Houghton, Mich.). Freshman defender Dawn Engman (Dollar Bay, Mich.) and sophomore Samantha Lajoie (Negaunee, Mich.) contributed to the hard nosed defensive play for the Lions. Freshman goaltender Shannonn Feldpausch (Portland, Mich.) recorded her first ever shutout for the Lions, stopping 10 quality shots on net.

"Our women came out fighting in the first game, but we couldn't match the experience of Robert Morris. They already had four games under their belt for the year, and our ladies fought hard, but just couldn't find the back of the net," said fifth year Head Coach Matt Griffith. "The team really put things together and we learned from our mistakes the previous day to win against Mount Mary. Our women were confident and we won most 50/50 balls. The freshmen really stepped up following our captains lead. I am proud of what they did and second place in the tourney is a great accomplishment."

Three Finlandia Alumni Join Professional Hockey Ranks - August 26, 2008

HANCOCK – Three Finlandia University alumni have been signed to professional ice hockey contracts recently, Joe Burcar, Finlandia head men’s hockey coach, and the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association announced recently. Travis Hanson (Bark River, Mich.), Josh Paquette (Marquette, Mich.), and Ryan Sullivan (Marquette, Mich.) have all joined the ranks of the pro hockey world.

Travis Hanson was re-signed by the Cincinnati Cyclones, an East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) team affiliated with the NHL’s Nashville Predators and Montreal Canadiens. He was originally signed after the MCHA tournament last season. Hanson helped lead the Cyclones to a league championship when they defeated Las Vegas June 5, 2008. He was a team captain at Finlandia for two years, recording 58 points (25G/33A) in 103 career games.

“Travis has worked very hard to create this opportunity,” Coach Burcar said. “The Cyclones were looking for a big, strong player to win battles on the wall; they called him in last spring and he made an immediate impact in helping win the ECHL Championship.”

Josh Paquette has been signed by the New Mexico Scorpions, a team in the Central Hockey League (CHL). He rewrote the MCHA record book, setting new career marks with 47 goals, 83 assists, and 130 points. Overall in his college career, he tallied 152 points (51G/101A) in 105 games. He was named to the MCHA all-conference team on two occasions and to the all-newcomer team as a freshman. He helped lead Finlandia to a Harris Cup Championship in 2007 as a junior, and to a second-straight title game appearance in 2008.

“Josh is a very gifted player with his ability to score in any given situation,” Burcar said. “He has been able to score at every level he has played. I believe he’ll make the transition as a professional player very smoothly.”

Ryan Sullivan joins Paquette on the Scorpions roster. The Finlandia Lions Team MVP a year ago, he was also an all-conference performer on the ice, recording 88 points (50G/38A) in 82 career games. The Scorpions are officially back on the ice October 6 for the start of training camp.

“Ryan is ready for the next level, he is very complete in his game,” Burcar said. “We used Ryan in every position and he has excelled. The bigger the game, the better Ryan is.”

All three Finlandia players were also regulars on the MCHA All-Academic Team.

“We will miss all three of these players; they have brought so much to Finlandia hockey,” Burcar said. “We wish them great success!”

FREE Soccer Clinic! - August 11, 2008

HANCOCK, MI – Finlandia soccer along with the Copper Country Soccer Association will be hosting a free soccer clinic on September 9, 2008 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. for players ages 8 to 16. The clinic will be run on multiple soccer fields, please contact the CCSA for directions and registration information at mshyslop@charter.net.

The clinic will be run and instructed by Matt Griffith, the head men’s and women’s soccer coach for Finlandia University. Coach Griffith will be assisted by his coaching staff as well as the Finlandia men’s and women’s soccer players.

This clinic is designed to teach the basics of the game including footwork, ball control, and shooting fundamentals. The players will be asked to bring soccer cleats or indoor shoes and a water bottle for water, balls will be provided.

“This is a great opportunity for Finlandia University and the CCSA to work together and help out local community athletes,” said Coach Griffith. “My players and I look forward to helping the community youth become better players.”

Finlandia Softball Adds Three Recruits - August 7, 2008

HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University women’s softball program is pleased to announce the addition of three outstanding athletes to this year’s program.

The new players who have committed to play for the Lions in the 2008-09 academic year are Nikole Metter (Rapid River, Mich.), Andrea Graves (Munising, Mich.), and Tena Vajcner (Ida, Mich.).

Nikole Metter, a 2008 graduate of Rapid River High School, played shortstop throughout her high school career. She earned numerous awards including team captain and selection for the MHSAA All-District softball team as a junior and senior.

“I’ve met with Nikole and her family several times and she is a very respectful, dedicated, and motivated young lady,” said Head Softball Coach Shawn Hendrickson. “Nikole has all those great intangibles that you need in a collegiate athlete and I can’t wait to get her out and on the field this year. With her outstanding work ethic and positive attitude she’ll be a great fit to the team.”

Andrea Graves, a 2008 graduate of Munising High School, was a four-sport athlete in high school, playing softball, basketball, volleyball, and golf. Graves will take the mound for the Lions and also spend some time in the shortstop position. In high school, she received 10 varsity letters and seven Most Valuable Player awards, was MHSAA Division II U.P. Golf Champion, and played on the District Championship volleyball team.

“Andrea is a true athlete, which is something that just can’t be taught,” said Coach Hendrickson. “Athletics are her life and through her years of hard work she has become an outstanding athlete. Andrea’s undeniable athletic ability and work ethic will most definitely shine for the Lion’s this year. I believe she’ll be an unstoppable force for us.”

Tena Vajcner, a 2008 graduate of Ida High School, rounds out the new softball trio. Vajcner plays third base and catcher.

“Tena has played softball her entire life and it shows in her knowledge, fundamentals, and respect for the game. She is a true leader and a very hard working, dedicated and motivated young woman. She knows the game of softball inside and out,” said Coach Hendrickson. “I look forward to the positive attitude and hard work that she’ll bring to our program.”

Finlandia Men’s Soccer Adds a Goaltender - August 6, 2008

HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University men’s soccer team has received a commitment from Eric Johnson of Meade County, Kentucky, to attend and play for the Lions starting this fall, Head Men’s Soccer Coach Matt Griffith announced today.

Johnson, 6'2", graduated from Meade County High School in 2008 where for four years he was a goaltender for the soccer team. Johnson was named All-County Defensive Player of the Year in 2007 and 2008, and All-County Goalkeeper of the Year in 2008.

“Eric will be a great addition to Finlandia’s soccer program,” said Coach Griffith. “He’s a solid keeper with a knack for charging out of the net to deal with one-on-one situations. I expect Eric to make an immediate impact.”

Finlandia Women’s Soccer Adds Two for 2008 - August 1, 2008

HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University women’s soccer program will add two freshmen to next year’s team.

Mollie Schultz (Wetmore, Mich.) and Dawn Engman (Dollar Bay, Mich.) have committed to play for the Lions in the 2008-09 academic year.

Mollie Schultz, a 2008 graduate of Munising High School, is a 5'2" midfielder/forward who will major in liberal arts.

“Mollie is a great player with lots of speed. Her background in soccer and track has built up her endurance beyond most,” said head women’s soccer coach Matt Griffith. “I look for Mollie to transition well in the women’s program here at Finlandia.”

Dawn Engman, a 2008 graduate of Dollar Bay High School, will be a utility player for the Lions.

“Dawn is a local player who has been refining her skills the last few years. She is exciting to watch on the field and is excited to play here at Finlandia,” said Coach Griffith. ”I’m hoping that in tough game situations her great attitude will give the team extra motivation.”

Lions Women Finish Third in National Academic Top 25 - July 31, 2008

HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University 2007-08 women’s basketball team finished third in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) NCAA Division III Academic Top 25 for the 2007-08 season, the organization announced Tuesday.

The WBCA Academic Top 25 ranks schools in five divisions, from NCAA Division I to junior/community colleges. The rankings are based on the average GPA of the entire roster. Teams making the list of Academic Top 25 Team must obtain at least a 3.0 overall GPA.

The Lions, under head coach Curtis Wittenberg, finished with a 3.571 cumulative grade-point-average, sharing third place with Maryville University-St. Louis. Concordia University, Wisconsin, had the top Division III GPA at 3.637.

“This is a great accomplishment for the team,” said Coach Wittenberg. “These women strive to be the best on and off the court. I am so proud of our players for this accomplishment.”

Lions Hoopster Tyler Gordon Earns National Record - July 29, 2008

HANCOCK – During the winter months when he was five or six years old, Tyler Gordon, Bayfield, Wisc., would sit on a snow bank and shoot baskets, said his uncle, Dean Gordon.

This early interest in basketball, combined with a natural ability and the dedication to complete hours of drills and practice, has earned Tyler Gordon, 21, a National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) statistical title and a place in the NCAA record books.

July 28, 2008, the Finlandia University Athletics Department presented Gordon with a NCAA plaque recognizing his achievement of 99 steals in 25 games, an average of 4.0 per game, during the 2008 basketball season, the highest average of steals in the 2008 season by any men’s basketball player in NCAA Divisions I, II, and III.

Gordon is heads above the NCAA players who follow him in the record book. NCAA Division III player Aswad Thomas of Elms College, Chicopee, Mass., averaged 3.6 steals last season, matching Garrett Lever of Division II University of Nebraska-Kearney. Division I player Devin Gibson, University of Texas at San Antonio, averaged 3.3 steals.

“Only a handful of students-athletes can say they were the best in their field and it is an honor for which you can be proud,” said Jim Wright, director of statistics for the NCAA, in a letter to Gordon announcing the award

“Two thumbs up!” gestured Dean Gordon when asked how he reacted when he heard the news. “He’s a great kid!”

At Bayfield High School, where he played four years of varsity basketball, Gordon broke the school record for most steals, most points, most assists, and most points in playoff contests.

Gordon has played two seasons of Lions basketball. He discovered Finlandia through his cousin, Chris Peterson, a supporter of Finlandia Athletics, and through participation in an independent basketball tournament at Finlandia in spring 2006.

Gordon didn’t expect to attain this level of success in steals. “I did a lot of drills to become quicker on my feet and worked on my hand-eye coordination. I knew I could score and my offense is strong, but I didn’t expect this level of success. It definitely exceeded my expectations.”

“When I started I just worked to become very competitive,” Gordon added. “Earning this record wasn’t really a goal. It just happened. I have been told I have fast hands, but I didn’t realize how fast!”

“Sometimes the importance of the role steals play in winning a basketball game is underappreciated,” noted Charlie Kemppainen, Finlandia’s head men’s basketball coach. “But every time the ball is stolen from the opposing team it robs them of opportunities for shots.”

Gordon shares his success with Lions student-athlete Ryan Artley and several other Finlandia men’s basketball starters in the 2007-08 season. “Overall we had a very good season,” he said. “I owe the attainment of this record to Coach Kemppainen and my fellow players.”

Kemppainen estimates that basketball players complete close to two steals per game. Gordon has more than doubled that with his of 4.0 steals per game average.

“Tyler has great anticipation and reads the offense very well. This, and his continuous practice and preparation have paid off for him,” said Kemppainen.

HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University men’s soccer program will welcome eight freshmen to next year’s team.

The new players who have committed to play for the Lions in the 2008-09 academic year are Timothy Carron (Saint Clair Shores, Mich.), Steven Hicks (Romulus, Mich.), Aaron Roberts (Watton, Mich.), Matt Erickson (Kingsford, Mich.), Gage McHoul (Dorchester, Mass.), Edward Smith (Kalkaska, Mich.), Carl Rosco (Romulus, Mich.), and Eli Ellison (Fort Walton Beach, Fla.).

Timothy Carron, a 2008 graduate of Saint Clair Shores Lakeview High School, is a 5'6" midfielder/defenseman. Carron was named to the All-Academic Team all four seasons of his high school soccer career. During his junior and senior years, he was an All-State Honorable Mention, a member of the All-Regional Team, and a member of the All-County (Macomb County) Team. In his sophomore and senior seasons, Carron was named to the All-District Team and the All-Conference (Macomb Area Conference) Team.

“Tim’s resilience, dedication, and understanding of the game will help him lead the way for incoming freshman in 2008,” said head men’s soccer coach Matt Griffith. “He has an innate ability to read the field, and has the ball control to advance in one-on-one situations.”

Steven Hicks, a 2008 graduate of Romulus High School, is a 6'1" forward who will major in criminal justice. In his senior season, Hicks was named MVP of his team and was a member of the All-Conference Team.

“Steven has a solid soccer background and led his team as captain his junior and senior years,” Coach Griffith said. “He knows how to lead on the field and knows the game well enough to play any position effectively.”

Aaron Roberts, a 5'11" midfielder, played with the Copper Country Christian soccer team last season. Coach Griffith had this to say about Roberts, “Aaron is a very fast athlete who has played locally for many years. He has a desire to win and a great team attitude. Aaron will be a great addition to the program, and is already used to playing in the mud and snow!”

Matt Erickson, a 2008 graduate of Kingsford High School, is a 5'11" goalkeeper who will major in sports management. Erickson comes to Finlandia with playing experience at both the club and high school levels.

“Matt is a solid keeper with the desire to be the best,” Griffith said. “His work ethic is second to none. He has been playing on the varsity team at Kingsford, and in the summer on club teams against college athletes. Matt has an uncanny ability to read where a player is going to shoot the ball in order to make the save.”

Gage McHoul, a 2008 graduate of Blue Hills Regional Tech School (Canton, Mass.), is a 5'9" midfielder. McHoul was captain of his varsity soccer team and the MVP his senior year.

“Gage is a hard working soccer player,” Coach Griffith noted. “He is not afraid to go one-on-one with other players and has the strength and ability to hold his own against the tougher players in the D-III ranks. I believe Gage will make an immediate impact on the soccer to major in criminal justice at Finlandia."

Edward Smith, a 2008 graduate of Kalkaska High School, will major in criminal justice at Finlandia. A 6'0" midfielder, Smith earned honorable mention on the All-Region Team his sophomore season, and was named to the 1st Team All-Conference (Lake Michigan Conference) his junior and senior seasons.

“Ed is a formidable player from northern lower Michigan,” Griffith said. “As a utility player he can play all positions. I am excited to see how he transitions from high school soccer to NCAA D-III soccer.”

Carl Rosco is a 2008 graduate of Romulus (Michigan) High School who will also be a utility player for the Lions. “Carl is a determined player that will bring a defensive presence to the program” Coach Griffith noted. “He can read a forward well, which will allow him to attack well defensively.”

Eli Ellison comes to Finlandia from Fort Walton Beach (Florida) High School. He’ll be a utility player for the Lions. “Eli is used to the heat of Florida soccer,” said Coach Griffith. “He can play well against players that are much bigger, and with his speed he dominates play on the field.”

HANCOCK – The Finlandia University men’s soccer team has received a commitment from Timothy Carron of Saint Clair Shores, Mich., to attend and play for the Lions starting this fall semester, Head Soccer Coach Matt Griffith announced today.

Carron, 5'6", graduated from Saint Clair Shores Lakeview High School in 2008 where he was a defenseman and mid-fielder for the soccer team. Carron was named to the All-Academic Team all four seasons of his high school soccer career. During his junior and senior years, he was an All-State Honorable Mention, a member of the All-Regional Team, and a member of the All-County (Macomb County) Team. In his sophomore and senior seasons, Carron was named to the All-District Team and the All-Conference (Macomb Area Conference) Team.

“Tim will be a great addition to the men’s soccer program at Finlandia,” said Coach Griffith. “His resilience, dedication, and understanding of the game will help him lead the way for incoming freshman in 2008. He has an innate ability to read the field, and has the ball control to advance in one-on-one situations. I look for Tim to make an immediate impact on the soccer program here at Finlandia.”

Former Brown University Coach To Head Finlandia Women’s Hockey - May 19, 2008

HANCOCK – Finlandia University Athletic Director Chris Salani is pleased to announce that Heather Reinke has accepted the position of assistant athletic director/senior women’s administrator (SWA) and head women’s ice hockey coach beginning in the 2008-09 athletics season.

“Heather is coming from two exceptional NCAA Division I schools, having been assistant women’s ice hockey coach under two exceptional Division I coaches,” says Salani. “I fully anticipate that she will develop Finlandia’s women’s ice hockey program into not only a prominent NCHA contender, but into a prominent NCAA Division III hockey team.”

Heather Reinke comes to Finlandia from Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island. At Brown, she was assistant women’s hockey coach under Digit Murphy, the all-time winningest Division I women’s hockey coach in NCAA history, and the third collegiate women’s hockey coach to surpass the 300-win mark.

From 2000 to 2006, Reinke was assistant, then associate coach for the women’s hockey team at Niagara University, Niagara Falls, New York. Reinke worked under head coach Margot Page at Niagara, stepping in as interim head coach while Page helped coach the Canadian national women’s ice hockey team to a gold medal at the 2006 Olympic Games in Turino, Italy.

As assistant athletic director and senior women’s administrator, Reinke will assist in the administration of Finlandia’s athletic program, in particular overseeing NCAA rules compliance, supervising the student-athlete advisory committee (SAAC), and acting as a mentor and advocate of equity and diversity within the athletic department.

Reinke earned a bachelor of arts in psychology at University of New Hampshire, where she played defense on the women’s hockey team, earning All-Eastern College Athletic Conference honors in each of her four years there. She is pursuing a masters degree in sports psychology through Minnesota State University.

Kaminski New Finlandia Head Volleyball Coach - May 1, 2008

HANCOCK – Finlandia University Athletic Director Chris Salani is pleased to announce that Mary Kaminski has been selected as the university’s new women’s volleyball coach.

“We are excited that Mary has joined Finlandia’s athletic coaching staff,” Salani says. “She brings unprecedented caliber to our volleyball program.”

Kaminski has 20 years of collegiate athletics experience. She has coached both women’s and men’s volleyball at NCAA Division I and II schools and for USA Volleyball (USAV).

Kaminski says she’s looking forward to coaching the Finlandia team and helping the women’s volleyball program establish itself competitively among its NCAA Division III peers. She’ll begin recruiting student-athletes for the Finlandia women’s volleyball program immediately.

Most recently, Kaminski was the junior varsity girls’ volleyball coach at Calumet High School from 2004-2008, achieving a record of 124 wins/1 loss in four seasons.

She has also been training and coaching the Michigan Technological University men’s volleyball team since 2004.

Kaminski was head women’s volleyball coach at Northeastern University, Boston, Mass., from 1997 to 2000. She led this Division I team to five tournament championships and qualified the team for post-season competition in 1998 and 1999.

From 1984 to 1997, Kaminski was head coach for the nationally-ranked Division II women’s volleyball program at Michigan Technological University. In 1994, Kaminski was named AVCA/Tachikara National Coach of the Year, and she received many other accolades during her tenure at Michigan Tech.

Kudos for Finlandia Soccer Players - April 14, 2008

HANCOCK – Matt Griffith, Finlandia University fourth-year head soccer coach, is pleased to announce spring university athletic awards for the men’s and women’s teams. For their hard work and dedication, the student-athletes received awards for Most Valuable Player, Lion Award, Most Improved Player, and Academic Award.

The women’s soccer team MVP award went to Jessica Jones, a sophomore from Winnipeg, Manitoba. The Lion Award, granted to a student-athlete who “gave their all” this season, was earned by sophomore Molly Raab from Antigo, Wisc. The Most Improved Player award is shared by Ashley Leitch, a senior from Garden City, Mich., and sophomore Salome Mnzava from Tanzania. The Academic Award winner is sophomore Robin Murphy of Howell, Mich., with a GPA of 3.69.

“We had a great year and all of the women worked hard throughout the season,” Griffith said. “This is a talented group of women that never stop to surprise me.”

The Finlandia men’s soccer team MVP award was earned by sophomore Markus Halme from Finland. The Lion Award is shared by Shawn Wickersheim, a senior from White Lake, Wisc., and junior Andrew Kirt of Gaylord, Mich. The Most Improved Award was earned by freshman Andrew Blake of Chassell, Mich. And, winning his second Academic Award this year was Andrew Kirt of Gaylord, Mich., with a GPA of 3.96.

“Each and every one of the athletes gave everything they had out on the field this year,” Griffith said. “The men had their best season in Finlandia history to date. I am proud of every single one of them.”

Finlandia’s Tincknell Receives Independents Honors - March 13, 2008

HANCOCK – Finlandia University sophomore Ally Tincknell (Negaunee, Mich.) has been named to the Association of Division III Independents Third Team for women's basketball.

“Ally had a great season, averaging 15.4 points per game (52.5% from the floor), 10.2 rebounds per game and 1.3 assists per game,” said Curtis Wittenberg, head women’s basketball coach.

“She was consistent night in and night out. She was always under-sized but was still able to put up a double-double (double figures in points and rebounds) almost every night. This is a great honor for Ally and I look forward to challenging her to improve on this next year.”

The All-Independent Women’s Basketball teams were selected by the women’s basketball coaches from member schools of the Association of Division III Independents

Lions Named to MCHA All-Tournament Team - March 5, 2008

HANCOCK – Three Finlandia University student-athletes were named to the Midwest College Hockey Association (MCHA) All-Tournament Team following the Harris Cup championship game March 1 at the Kern Center in Milwaukee.

Freshman goalie Ryan Donovan (Pinckney, Mich) was named the Harris Cup Tournament MVP. Junior forward Ryan Sullivan (Marquette, Mich.) and sophomore defenseman Tiger Marcotte (L’Anse, Mich.), were also among the seven players named to the 2008 MCHA All-Tournament team.

“All 3 players had a great weekend,” said Joe Burcar, head men’s ice hockey coach. “Sullivan had two assists in the 4-2 semi-finals win. Marcotte had 1 assist and 1 goal in the semi-final. Donovan played in both the semi-final and championship games, giving up only 3 goals on the entire weekend.

Finlandia Leads MCHA All-Academic Team - February 29, 2008

HANCOCK – For the third year, Finlandia University leads the Midwest College Hockey Association (MCHA) All-Academic Team with 12 players.

They are sophomores Brandon Vanacker (3.558) and Bryan Solander (3.475); juniors Matthew Krueger (3.974), Marc “Tiger” Marcotte (3.668), and Blake Miller (3.581); and seniors Travis Hanson (3.725), Mike Parks (3.713), Matt Lindgren (3.713), Ryan Sullivan (3.512), Lucas Alberer (3.450), Josh Paquette (3.321), and C.J. Fisher (3.245).

The MCHA All-Academic Team will be announced this weekend at MCHA Harris Cup playoff games at the Kern Center in Milwaukee.

FU’s Donovan MCHA Freshman of the Week - February 12, 2008

HANCOCK – -Finlandia University Lions freshman goalie Ryan Donovan (Pinckney, Mich.) is the MCHA Freshman of the Week for the second time this year.

He earns the honors for his effort between the pipes against University of Minnesota-Crookston. He stopped 20 of 22 shots Friday and then 26 of 27 in Saturday’s win (.939 save percentage overall) while limiting the Golden Eagles to a 1-for-15 showing on the power play in the series.

“Ryan played very well this weekend,” said Finlandia head men’s hockey coach Joe Burcar. “Minn-Crookston is a challenging place to play and he earned two hard fought victories.”

Donovan was also named MCHA Freshman of the Week December 10, 2007, for his play in the Lions’ sweep of University of Minnesota-Crookston December 7 and 8.

FU's Tincknell Independents Player of Week

HANCOCK – Finlandia University sophomore forward Ally Tincknell ( Negaunee , Mich. ) has been named the Association of Division III Independents women's basketball Player of the Week for the second time this season.

On the weekend, Tincknell helped her team to a 1-1 record by averaging 23.5 points and 11 rebounds per contest. She also shot 57.7% from the floor and 70.8% from the charity stripe.

In a 61-49 victory over Rochester College February 1, she tallied 15 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists. On February 2, she added 32 points and 12 boards in a tough 74-66 loss to Marygrove College .

“Ally has been a solid player for us game in and game out,” said Curtis Wittenberg, head women's basketball coach.

FU’s Peterson, Tincknell Honored by D-III Independents

HANCOCK, MI – Finlandia University senior Laura Peterson (St. Ignace, Mich.) was selected by the Association of NCAA D-III Independent coaches as All- Independent 2nd Team Volleyball Setter.

Peterson averaged 8 assists per game (636 total assists) and had 3 digs per game (238 total digs).

Sophomore Ally Tincknell (Negaunee, Mich.) was selected by the NCAA D-III Independent coaches as an All-Independent Honorable Mention Volleyball Middle Blocker. She averaged 2.05 kills per game (164 total kills), 3.08 digs per game (246 total digs) and 27 solo blocks.

“I am very proud of these two girls,” said Katelyn Fogle, head women’s volleyball coach. “Each of them improved tremendously throughout the season.

“Laura, a senior captain, is the definition of hard work and commitment. She really deserved this honor and I am glad the other coaches took note of her statistics and character.

“Ally, fought through injury throughout the entire season and posted some great numbers in kills and digs. Ally will only improve in the next two years and I am excited for her to return next season with this honor under her belt.”

FU Men Beat D-II Northern Michigan - December 5, 2007

MARQUETTE, Mich. – The Finlandia University men's basketball team won its second game in a row. Finlandia spoiled NMU's home opener on Wednesday night. The Lions defeated the ‘Cats by a score of 75-58. For Finlandia it was its third all-time victory over NMU. FU (then Suomi College) defeated NMU during the 1956-57 (73-65) and 2000-01 (67-62) seasons. FU improves to 2-4 on the season will the Wildcats are still looking for their first win are now 0-6.

The first six plus minutes of the game was close as neither team built a lead larger than three points. NMU had a 16-12 lead, then FU led the rest of the half except for two ties. Finlandia tied the score at 25-all with 4:42 remaining to half. Over the final four plus minutes of the half the Lions went on a 13-3 run. The score at half was 38-28. FU for the first 20 minutes of the game was 15-30 from the floor for 50 percent while the ‘Cats were struggling at 37.9 percent (11-29).

The second half belonged to the Lions. FU led the entire 20 minutes of play. Northern made a three-pointer at 12:33 as the ‘Cats were trailing (55-42). That was as close as NMU would get on the night.

FU ended the game by shooting 50 percent from the floor (29-58), while NMU shot 41 percent from the floor (21-51). FU had the edge off the glass at 36-28.

Finlandia's Erik Bresette led all scorers with 24 points and all rebounders with 11. Tyler Gorden also added 18 points and 8 rebounds for the Lions.

Finlandia will face the University of Wisconsin - Superior on Monday (Dec. 10) in Superior, Wisconsin at 8:00 p.m.

Finlandia’s Tincknell Named Player of the Week

HANCOCK, MI – Finlandia University sophomore forward Ally Tincknell (Negaunee, Mich.) has been named the Association of Division III Independents women’s basketball Player of the Week. Tincknell helped her team win the Silver Lake College Tip-Off Tournament in Manitowoc, Wis., by averaging 20.5 points per game and 8.5 rebounds per game. She also shot a blistering 68% from the field en route to an All-Tournament team selection. In a 65-61 win over Ashford, she tallied 27 points and nine boards and added 14 points and eight rebounds in Finlandia’s 64-54 victory over Silver Lake.

Finlandia’s McLean NCHA Player of the Week

HANCOCK, MI – Finlandia University forward Katelyn McLean, a freshman from Houghton, was named the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA) women’s player of the week for the week of November 12, 2007, after scoring four goals and three assists as the Lions split a pair of games with Hamline University last weekend.

McLean outscored the entire Hamline offense in a 6-2 win on November 10, scoring three goals - two power play goals and a shorthanded goal - and two assists. In a 5-3 loss the following day, McLean tied the game at 1-1, then assisted on the go-ahead goal before Hamline came back with four straight goals.

Exceptional Weekend for Finlandia Men’s Hockey, and Players Paquette and Rouleau

HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University Lions opened their men’s ice hockey season with a bang, upending Concordia University in its first-ever league games by scores of 10-3 in the opener November 9, and 5-2 Saturday.

Finlandia also received votes in the national Top 15 poll released this week.

Finlandia’s Josh Paquette did not wait long this season to break the all-time MCHA scoring mark. Paquette assisted Ryan Sullivan’s first goal of the night Friday at the 19:10 mark of the first period. He finished with three assists in the game and now has career totals of 102 points on 39 goals and 63 assists.

Paquette entered play this season tied with former Marian College forward Dan Odegard (42G/57A), each with 99 points on the all-time list. Former MSOE forward Brian Soik’s record of 66 career assists will be the next target in Paquette’s sights.

Finlandia University Lions sophomore defenseman Ross Rouleau (Hancock, MI) stepped right in to the start of his season to earn MCHA Defensive Player of the Week honors. He had three assists in Friday’s victory and added a goal Saturday. For the weekend, he had four points and was plus-4 on the ice.

Finlandia Men’s Hockey Sweeps Concordia – November 10, 2007
Mequon, Wis.

The Finlandia men’s hockey team took two games this weekend from Concordia to start the season. Ryan Sullivan(4) (Marquette) started things off for the Lion’s at 4:37 with a power play goal with help from Mike Parks (Marquette) and Blake Miller (Hancock). This was followed by another power play goal from Ross Rouleau (1) (Hancock) from Keith Johnstone (Marquette) to put the Lion’s ahead two nothing after one period.

In the second period Jonathan Smith (1) of the Falcons slipped one by the Finlandia goaltender at 5:52 to bring the Falcons to within one goal. However, Mike Parks (2) (Marquette) finished the scoring with the game winner in the second with a goal to put the Lion’s back up by two at 15:21. Brandon Vanacker (Lincoln Park) and Ross Rouleau added assists.

Mike Parks (3) returned in the third and scored a power play goal at 1:16 with help from Joe Beaudry (Marquette) and Marc Marcotte (L’anse). Justin Maciuk of the Falcons added his second of the season on a short handed goal at 17:16. The scoring ended when Blake Miller (1) beat the Falcon’s goalie at 18:50 on a power play goal to give the Lion’s a 5-2 win.

Garrett Lee (Burnaby, B.C.) (W, 1-0-0) had 29 saves while Alexander Kueppen (L, 0-1-0) for Concordia had 47 saves. Finlandia had 51 shots on goal to Concordia’s 31. On the Power Play Finlandia were 4 for 9 while Concordia was 1 of 11. Penalties for the Lion’s was 11 for 22 minutes and Concordia was 13 for 53 minutes.

Finlandia Lions Beat Concordia – November 9, 2007
Mequon, Wisconsin

Friday the Lion's Men's hockey team started league play on all cylinders by defeating the Falcons of Concordia 10-3.

Jason Klauka of Concordia scored at 13:48 of the first period to take the lead for the first and last time. Ryan Sullivan (Marquette)(1) responded with his first of the season at 19:10 with helpers from Joe Beau dry(Marquette)and Mike Parks(Marquette) to give the Lion's a power play goal. At 19:56 Corey Blake (Marquette) (1) scored on another power play to put the Lion's up 2-1. Assisting on the goal was Travis Hanson (Bark River) and Brandon Vanacker (Lincoln Park).

In the second period Adam Domaas tied the game at 4:47. This score was short lived as Ryan Sullivan (2) put the Lion's back on top with help from Josh Paquette (Marquette) and Joe Beaudry. Domaas responded again at 8:44 to tie the game for the third time. At 9:34 Joe Beaudry (1) got his first of the year and game winner unassisted. The second period ended after Ryan Sullivan (3)
scored his third of the night for a hat trick with help from Mike Parks and Josh Paquette. This was followed by a talley from Mike Parks (1) with Ross Rouleau (Hancock) and Tiger Marcotte (L'anse) assisting.

The Lion's scored four more unanswered goals in the third period by Travis Hanson (2) (Corey Blake) short handed. Brandon VanAcker (1) scored his first of the season from Keith Johnstone (Marquette) at 16:52. The scoring ended with Joe Beaudry (2) with his second of the night at 18:40 from Ross Rouleau and Mike Parks. The third period saw six game disqualifications following a check from behind on Ryan Sullivan. Two Lion's and four Falcons will miss the next game on Saturday.

Lukas Alberer (Poertscach, Austria) made 19 saves for the Lion's (W, 1-0-0). Justus Neuman took the loss for Concordia (L,0-1-0) with 55 saves. Finlandia had ten penalties for 36 minutes while Concordia had 14 penalties for 71 minutes. Finlandia was 5 for 10 on the power play.

Finlandia’s Danielson NCHA Player of the Week

Finlandia University athletic director and head women’s ice hockey coach Chris Salani announced today that sophomore goalie Annika Danielson has been named Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA) women’s player of the week for the week of November 5, 2007.

Danielson, from Cokato, Minn., received the honor after leading the Lions to two shutout wins last weekend against Augsburg College.

Finlandia defeated Augsburg by identical 3-0 scores in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Danielson, who recorded her first two career shutouts, stopped 23 saves in the November 2 opener, and then turned away 19 saves the following day.

Women's Hockey sweeps Augsburg College - November 3, 2007

Claiming a 41-19 advantage in shots-on-goal, Finlandia University scored a 3-0 victory over host Augsburg College on Saturday afternoon, completing a weekend sweep of the Auggies at the Augsburg Ice Arena.

Scoring goals for the Lions, now 2-0-0 overall, were Amy Danielson (Jr., Centerville, Minn.), Katelyn McLean (Fr., Houghton, Mich.) her first career goal as a Lion, and Brenda Peterson (So., Calumet, Mich.).

Danielson opened the scoring at the 5:42 mark of the first period, deflecting a shot in front of the net into the goal. Adele Horrigan (Jr., Gaylord, Mich.) and Ashley Leitch (Sr., Garden City, Mich.) assisted on the goal.

The Lions out shot the Auggies by a 14-5 margin in the second period, scoring twice in a 1:17 span. McLean scored on a power-play tally from Danielle Syrowik (Fr., Selby Township, Mich.) at the 12:21 mark, and Peterson scored from Jennifer Kelly (So., Brownstown, Mich.) at the 13:38 mark.

Annika Danielson (So., Cokato, Minn.) had 19 saves for the Lions to record her second straight shutout to open the season.

Finlandia hosts Hamline next Saturday (11/10) at 7:15 p.m and Sunday (11/11) TBA.

Lady Lions start off the hockey season with a shutout - November 2, 2007

Coach Salani contributes a long bus ride to the Lions slow start, but they were able to get their legs and win a 3-0 shutout over the Auggies of Augsburg College on Friday night.

Scoring her first career goal as a Lion was Katie Fredianelli (Fr., Hancock, Mich.) at the 9:21 mark of the first period, assisted by Jennifer Kelly (So., Brownstown, Mich.) and Kendra Benson (So., Harrison Township, Mich.). Danielle Syrowik (Sr., Shelby Township, Mich.) added two more goals for the Lions, one at the 12:34 mark or the second period, the other at the 10:11 mark in the third period.

Special teams were tested in this game as each team tallied 8 penalties a piece. Neither team could cash in while the other was short-handed.

Recording her first career shutout as a Lion was Annika Danielson (So., Cokato, Minn.) with 23 saves.

Local Finlandia soccer players shine - October 20, 2007

On a mud covered field Saturday in Houghton the Finlandia Lion’s women’s soccer team fought through the tough field conditions to win 11-1 against Mount Mary College. Houghton residents Hayley Laban and Katelyn McLean came up big for the lions burying 3 goals apiece earning their first hat tricks of the season. Freshman Hayley Laban with her 3 goals and 1 assist tallied 7 points in the contest, and Freshman Katelyn McLean with her 3 goals and 2 assists earned 8 points on the day. Also scoring for the lions was Brighton, Michigan native Janna Daavettila scoring 3 goals earning herself the third hat trick of the day. Sophomore defender Molly Raab and Senior defender Brenda Peterson also scored a goal for the lions. “The field conditions were tough today and every player on the field was covered in mud. Our ladies fought through the adverse conditions, worked the ball well, and took advantage of training all week in the rain. Today was a record day for the program and the women worked hard to achieve it. I am continually impressed by the talent and drive of my players,” states fourth year head coach Matt Griffith.

Lions Fight Hard in OT Loss - October 9, 2007

The Finlandia men’s soccer team lost a hard fought match in overtime on Monday in Mankato Minnesota against Bethany Lutheran College. Finlandia struck first on a header that found the back of the net by Toshiyuki Mita, which was assisted by Nic Polzin. Bethany then scored two goals to take the lead with 2 minutes left in the half. Lion’s Freshman Daniel Rodriguez scored with 30 seconds left in the half from a well placed shot from 43 yards out which tied the game going into the second half. Entering the second half Finlandia scored early on a penalty kick from Marcus Halme. The lions fought hard throughout the rest of the second half and Bethany scored with 5 minutes remaining to take it into overtime. With 1 minute left in overtime Bethany scored to win the game. “My men fought hard today and I was impressed by their poise. It is due to the hard work and dedication that we are competitive this year. These are a great bunch of men and are great representatives of Finlandia athletics,” states Griffith.

Lions Win in OT - September 15, 2007

The men's Finlandia Lions soccer team roared to victory over Grace Bible College out of Grand Rapids, Mich. in an overtime win on Saturday. Finlandia, now 1 and 4 on the season, needed 103 minutes in order to come out ahead. Grace Bible struck early in the 36th minute of play putting Finlandia down by one goal going into halftime. Finlandia's Daniel Rodriguez from Panama scored to tie the game 20 minutes into the second half on a 35 yard shot. Grace struck back 10 minutes later taking the lead on a questionable call that led to a penalty kick. Lion's midfielder Marcus Halme from Finland scored the tying goal to take it into overtime with 3 minutes left in regulation time. At 103 minutes into the game Marcus Halme fired a penalty shot into the upper right ninety to seal the win for Finlandia. Senior Tucker Thoreson (Crystal Falls, Mich.) and freshman Andrew Blake (Chassell, Mich.) contributed to outstanding defensive play for Finlandia. Lion's goaltender Dane Rasmussen stopped 6 of Grace Bible's quality shots on net. “This win is a true team effort. We had 19 shots from 8 different players, which means that we distributed the ball well today. I am proud of my men, and it is their continuing heart and determination that allows us to win games,” states Coach Griffith.

Lions Play Close, Lose to NBBC - September 1, 2007

Sophomoer Ashley Jilek stopped 13 shots for the Finlandia University women’s soccer team in a 2-0 loss to Northland at the Michigan Tech University athletic fields on Friday.

Senior midfielder Ashley Wanhala (Chassell) had two shots on goal for the Lions, while forward Jessica Jones also had a shot on goal.

Northland scored in the 33rd minute on a goal from Katie Fromer, and Chrissy Parker added the clincher in the 90th minute.

Northland outshot the Lions 14-6 and had 11 corner .

Lions Run into a Tough Northland Team - September 1, 2007

In the first game of the season, the Finlandia Lions gave a stellar effort in a loss to a well experienced team. The Lion's went down early due to a controversial call leading to a penalty kick. Although first year goaltender Dane Rasmussen (Stevens Point, Wis.) stopped the initial shot, the rebound found the foot of a Northland player which led to the goal. First year player Marcus Helme from Finland answered with the Lion's first goal minutes later. Andy Kirt scored the second goal for the Lion's late in the second half. "For our first game we played well. The men played hard, but couldn't convert on our goal scoring opportunities. We now know what to fix and we will come out hard against Ripon on Sunday," said Coach Griffith.

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