ST CATHARINES - Defenceman AJ Cook registered four assists as the Brock Badgers defeated the Laurier Golden Hawks 6-2 during Ontario University Athletics (OUA) men's hockey action at Canada Games Park in Thorold on Friday, Nov. 18.
 
The game was dedicated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of North and West Niagara. Prior to the game, the Badgers hosted a ceremonial puck drop with members who have benefited from the organization, which has run for more than 85 years to make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth in Niagara.
 
"We are fortunate to be able to get an education while pursuing our passion in sport. To connect with Big Brothers Big Sisters provides necessary perspective," said Brock men's hockey coach TJ Manastersky. "By using our platform, we aim to bring important exposure to a worthy cause and generate interest in supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters financially, and through volunteering. They do life-changing work, and it is our honour to lend a hand."
 
The Badgers improve to 7-3-0-0; the Golden Hawks fall to 4-6-1-0.
 
Goaltender Andy MacLean made 17 saves as Brock remains one of the top teams in the OUA with a plus-12 goal differential.
 
The Badgers took only three minor penalties and continue to be one of the league leaders with the least amount of penalty minutes (92).
 
After trailing 1-0 in the first period, the Badgers opened the second with a power-play goal courtesy of Tyler Burnie. Jordan Stock and Tyler Rollo each found the back of the net before Laurier netted their second goal with the man advantage.
 
Brock held a 3-2 lead midway through the third period as Ethan Sims, Adam Berg, and Justin Brack each posted a goal.
 
Berg and Brack each finished the game with a goal and two assists. Cole Thiessen tallied two helpers.
 
For Laurier, Grayden Gottschalk and Evan Benwell each scored a goal for the Hawks.
 
Up next, the Badgers host the Waterloo Warriors on Saturday, Nov. 19. Puck drop is at 4 p.m. Tickets for Brock Badgers home games can be purchased at https://brocku.universitytickets.com/. The game is also available to stream on OUA.tv.
 
BADGERS AT A GLANCE
Overall Record: 11-4-1 (W-L-OTL)
Conference Record: 7-3-0

Next game: Saturday, Nov. 19 vs Waterloo Warriors • 4 PM - Canada Games Park

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