The Waterloo Warriors men's hockey season is underway, and they currently hold a 1-4 record. The season opener was a nail-biting 5-4 loss against the Brock Badgers, but the Warriors rebounded quickly with a dominant 4-1 win at home against the Western Mustangs. In the following week, they narrowly fell to the UQTR Patriotes in a 5-4 shootout. Despite the loss, it was a promising result, as the Patriotes are the reigning OUA champions for the past three consecutive years. These opening games showcased the Warriors readiness for the season ahead. Even in their two close losses, they displayed the energy and competitiveness needed to challenge some of the conference's top teams. Most recently, the Warriors faced the Guelph Gryphons on the road, and at home.

In the first matchup in Guelph, Waterloo got on the board early, with smooth passing from Tate Popple (Brandon) and Nate Bierd (Calgary) setting up Jaxson Murray (Waterloo) for the opening goal. However, the Gryphons quickly swung the momentum in their favor, dominating possession and outshooting the Warriors 23-9 by the end of the first two periods. Despite the pressure, the Warriors trailed only 2-1, keeping the game within reach. Guelph extended their lead in the third period, but a late play from Simon Rose (Renfrew) to Adamo Santia (Richmond Hill) who scored pulled Waterloo closer, resulting in a 5-2 final score. The Warriors fought hard, especially in the third period, where they outshot Guelph 17-13, showing they wouldn't go down without a fight.

In the rematch at home, the Warriors showed more control early on, outshooting the Gryphons through the first two periods. Guelph struck first, but Jaden Goldie (Owen Sound) responded quickly with a goal assisted by Tate Popple (Brandon) and Jack Phibbs (Selkirk). Aaron Davidson (Plattsville) then put Waterloo ahead 2-1, finishing off a play from Sam McKinney (Fredericton) and Nate Bierd (Calgary). However, Guelph scored three unanswered goals, taking a 4-2 lead by the end of the second period. Waterloo rallied in the third, closing the gap to 4-3 after Jaxson Murray (Waterloo) netted his second goal of the series, assisted by Nate Bierd (Calgary) and Adamo Santia (Richmond Hill). A standout performance in this game was the Warriors penalty kill, as they successfully shut down all six of Guelph's power play opportunities, showcasing their defensive discipline and tactical awareness.

Up next, the Warriors face off against the Laurier Golden Hawks on October 24 at 7:00 p.m. With 23 games remaining in the regular season, there's still plenty of time for Waterloo to build momentum and make their mark.