Niagara University Hockey Team Plays for Championship, Honors Fallen Teammate
The Niagara University Division 2 club hockey team, boasting a 29-1-1 record, is heading to the ACHA M2 Nationals in St. Louis, Missouri, with a heavy heart. Their journey to the championship is dedicated to the memory of sophomore defenseman Bradly Burden, who tragically passed away in a car accident last week.
A Season Interrupted by Loss
The team had recently secured their spot at nationals when the devastating news arrived. Bradly Burden, affectionately known as “Burdy” by his teammates, was a key player and a beloved member of the Purple Eagles. His unexpected death has left a void that the team is determined to fill with honor and determination.
Teammates Reflect on Bradly’s Spirit
Teammates Benji Orgil and Aiden Waters shared their grief and fond memories of Bradly. Orgil described the mornings as “rough,” admitting he still instinctively expects a message from him. Waters remembered Bradly as “one-of-one,” highlighting his unique personality and quirky habits, like washing his hockey stick with soap and water to rid it of “bad juju” after a poor performance.
A Decision to Play, Driven by Family
Initially, head coach Sean Casilio questioned whether the team could continue to compete with such a profound loss. However, a conversation with Bradly’s family solidified their resolve. Bradly’s father urged them to play, stating, “If there’s one thing I seek to do, I want to win 5 games for the Burdens.”
Honoring Bradly on and off the Ice
The team will carry Bradly’s memory with them throughout the tournament. They will wear special warm-up jerseys featuring his number 20. During games, Bradly’s number will be sewn onto all game jerseys, and each player’s helmet will display a sticker reading “Burdy God Bless.” Teammates expressed a feeling of playing with Bradly alongside them, emphasizing their commitment to honoring his spirit.
More Than Just Showing Up
For the top-ranked team in the northeast, simply participating in nationals isn’t enough. They are driven by a desire to win the championship in Bradly’s honor. Teammate Mario Smith stated that winning would “indicate the world,” not only for Bradly but for the entire team.
FAQ
Q: What league does Niagara University’s hockey team compete in?
A: The team competes in the ACHA M2 division.
Q: Where are the ACHA M2 Nationals being held?
A: The tournament is taking place in St. Louis, Missouri.
Q: How are the team members honoring Bradly Burden?
A: They are wearing jerseys with his number, adding his number to their game jerseys, and displaying stickers on their helmets.
Did you know? Bradly Burden was also a former player for the Hershey Cubs Hockey Club, where he won a national championship in 2024 and a conference championship in 2025.
Pro Tip: Supporting local college sports is a great way to connect with your community and experience the passion of amateur athletics.
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