Cornell’s season came to a heartbreaking end in the Toledo Regional final as the Big Red fell to No. 8-ranked Boston University, 3-2, in overtime.
Senior forward Jack O’Leary and sophomore Ryan Walsh found the back of the net, while senior goaltender Ian Shane delivered an impressive 40-save performance.
Walsh opened the scoring in the first period after an initial ruling of a hand pass was overturned, giving Cornell a 1-0 lead. However, Boston University quickly responded when a rebound deflected off a Cornell defender and into the net. The Big Red held firm through a tense second period, with Shane turning aside all 10 shots faced. A Terrier power-play goal early in the third put Cornell behind, but O’Leary answered with a wrist shot from the slot, forcing overtime.
Boston University capitalized on an opportunity 6:25 into the extra frame, as Quinn Hutson’s shot found its way through traffic for the game-winner. Despite the loss, Shane and Walsh earned spots on the Toledo Regional All-Tournament Team.
The game marked the end of an era, as head coach Mike Schafer ’86 concluded his 30-year tenure leading the program, leaving behind an enduring legacy in Cornell hockey history.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.