Northern Michigan University and Marquette Junior Hockey have announced a partnership agreement that will benefit the area youth hockey program in several ways. In addition to NMU designating one of its hockey games each season as Youth Hockey Night, the university will provide 20 complimentary tickets for each home game that can be distributed throughout the youth hockey organization.

As part of the agreement, Marquette Junior Hockey will be advertised in the Wildcats’ home Berry Events Center, and discounts will be provided for its players to join the Young Wildcat Club. Fundraising opportunities are also being provided, such as being group game ushers, 50-50 raffle ticket sellers, and chuck-a-puck sellers.

“We are excited to partner with Marquette Junior Hockey and are committed to helping grow the sport and develop young players locally,” said Comley, a former NMU head hockey coach himself. “This is a win-win partnership and we look forward to building the game and making memories for athletes and their families.”

Marquette Junior Hockey President Ryan Higbie expressed his gratitude for the opportunities and visibility this agreement will provide for their players. “We appreciate this agreement as it provides benefits not only for our players but also for the growth of youth hockey in our area,” he said in a recent news release announcing this partnership. “We would like to thank Coach Potulny and Athletic Director Rick Comley for their enthusiasm for this partnership and look forward to a great season.”

For more information about Marquette Junior Hockey, visit www.marquettejuniorhockey.com, and to learn more about Northern Michigan University athletics, visit www.nmuwildcats.com. Information compiled by Journal Sports Editor Steve Brownlee. His email address is sbrownlee@miningjournal.net