Here’s a bold statement: Owen Bartoszkiewicz is rewriting the narrative for goaltenders in college hockey, and his latest accolade proves it. Michigan Tech’s standout netminder has once again been crowned the CCHA Goaltender of the Week, marking his third time claiming this honor this season. But here’s where it gets even more impressive: Bartoszkiewicz’s performance isn’t just about stopping pucks—it’s about leading his team to victory under pressure.
In a recent CCHA series sweep at Ferris State, Bartoszkiewicz showcased why he’s a force to be reckoned with. The junior goaltender turned away 48 out of 52 shots, including a 22-save effort in a nail-biting 3-2 win on Friday and a staggering 26 saves in a 5-2 victory on Saturday. And this is the part most people miss: his performance wasn’t just about individual brilliance—it was pivotal in the Huskies’ perfect 4-for-4 penalty kill record during the series.
For the season, Bartoszkiewicz’s stats speak volumes: a 10-5-2 record, a 2.23 goals-against average, and a .920 save percentage. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite ranking fourth in the CCHA in goals-against average and fifth in save percentage, Bartoszkiewicz is still flying under the radar nationally. Sure, he’s fifth in the country with 10 wins and eighth in minutes played, but is he getting the recognition he deserves? That’s a debate worth having.
Michigan Tech, now 10-6-2 overall and 7-3-2 in the CCHA, is gearing up for the 59th annual Great Lakes Invitational in Grand Rapids. The Huskies face Miami in the first semifinal on December 28, with Michigan State and Ferris State squaring off in the late game. But the real question is: Can Bartoszkiewicz continue this momentum and lead his team to a tournament victory?
This isn’t just a story about a goaltender—it’s about a player who’s redefining what it means to be a game-changer. What do you think? Is Bartoszkiewicz the most underrated goalie in college hockey right now? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
