Merrimack College’s ice hockey team dug deep into its roster for a starting goalie this week.
The Division I hockey program unexpectedly started student manager Spencer Marquis against Stonehill on Sunday. Marquis was set to start his job as a manager, but due to suspensions and injuries, he ended up in the goalie position.
After starting goalie Max Lundgren was suspended by the NCAA, and backup goalie Nils Wallstrom was injured, Marquis had to step in as the starting goalie for Merrimack.
Marquis had 22 saves in his first NCAA game, despite Merrimack losing 3-2.
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The Merrimack Warriors raise their sticks before a game against the Boston University Terriers at Lawler Rink on Dec. 1, 2023, in North Andover, Massachusetts. (Richard T Gagnon/Getty Images)
“Not the result we wanted, but it’s a dream come true for me,” said Marquis. “It’s been the craziest 48 hours of my life. Every kid grows up dreaming of playing college hockey. I got my chance a little different than some other people, but it was a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Marquis last played for Brunswick High School in 2020 and had no practice with Merrimack before his start.
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Merrimack was forced to get creative during their game. (iStock)
“I’m happy to be a part of it,” he said. He shared that he was informed last minute that he might need to dress as a backup or even start.
Despite the loss, Marquis made some crucial saves, giving his team a fighting chance throughout the game.
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Head coach Scott Borek of the Merrimack Warriors stands behind the bench during a game against the UMass Lowell River Hawks at the Tsongas Center on Nov. 18, 2023, in Lowell, Massachusetts. (Richard T Gagnon/Getty Images)
Merrimack coach Scott Borek commended Marquis’ performance, even though the team couldn’t secure a win for him.
“Spencer played great,” Borek said. “He gave us a chance to win the hockey game. I’m so disappointed for him. He deserved to win the hockey game, and we weren’t able to get that done for him.”
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