Sixteen home games highlight the 2011-12 Canisius College hockey schedule, released by head coach Dave Smith today.
After an exhibition matchup with Queens University on Oct. 2, the Griffs open the 2011-12 campaign with a pair of road games at ECAC-foe and former Atlantic Hockey member Quinnipiac on Oct. 15 and 16.
Following the Quinnipiac series, Canisius starts Atlantic Hockey play with the last five league champions. The Griffs host RIT in their home opener on Oct. 20 before traveling to face defending Atlantic Hockey champion Air Force on Oct. 29. Canisius then hosts Bentley for a pair of games before returning to non-conference play.
The Griffs then play four of five games against CCHA opponents, playing at Bowling Green on Nov. 11 and 12 and hosting Lake Superior State on Nov. 19 and 20 with a road game against rival Niagara in the middle on Nov. 15. The Griffs also host the Purple Eagles on Feb. 14 and play in Lewiston on Feb. 16 in the Battle of the Bridge rivalry games. Canisius also plays at Colgate in non-conference action on Dec. 30.
In total, Canisius will play 27 Atlantic Hockey games. The Griffs play each team from the western division — Air Force, Mercyhurst, Niagara, RIT and Robert Morris — three times. Canisius squares off with each of the five western division schools twice in the final 10 regular season games.
In addition, Canisius will once again finish the season with rival Mercyhurst, playing the Lakers around senior festivities. The Griffs host Mercyhurst on Feb. 24 for Senior Night before playing in Erie to finish the season on Feb. 25. Canisius’ Senior Banquet is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 26.
The Griffs will play each team from the eastern division twice. In addition to Bentley, Canisius hosts Connecticut and Sacred Heart, while playing at AIC, Army and Holy Cross.
During the season, fans will be able to take advantage of a number of promotions. Students will be able to skate with the Griffs following games on Oct. 20, Dec. 9 and Jan. 29 in addition to an Anderson’s Ice Cream Night on Jan. 14.
Canisius returns 15 letter winners from the 2010-11 team that advanced to the Atlantic Hockey Quarterfinals.
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