Battling injuries and sickness, Oakland University’s Men’s Club Hockey Team won the American Collegiate Hockey Association Division II national title in overtime March 11 at the national tournament in Rochester, N.Y.

Sophomore T.J. Schaeffler scored the game-winning goal in the ACHA finals with 4:42 remaining in the first overtime against Liberty University, earning the Grizzlies their second national championship in three years with a score of 7-6.

"I can't say enough about the heart and hustle in our guys. I am very proud to coach this group of young men," said Head Coach Sean Hogan. “We had about five or six guys who were sick or injured and they played five tough games this weekend.”

Graduate student Brandon Lipari was named tournament MVP and seniors Dale Swims and Will McMahon were honored as all-tournament team members.

“I can’t think of a better way to cap off a college career,” senior B.J. Belliotti said. “We were all sick, hurt and sore, but we found a way to win.”

The Grizzlies tournament play started with a 10-9 overtime win against Indiana University March 8. The team went on to defeat Colorado 4-3 March 9, Stoneybrook 7-1 March 10 and Colorado State 3-2 in overtime in the semifinals March 11, which advanced them to the championship game against Liberty University.

For the three players completing their final season with the Grizzlies, the team’s second championship and third straight trip to the national finals is the best way to finish.

"I have played in this league for a long time and to go out with another national championship is a great feeling," senior Dan Oleksy said.

The Grizzlies were the No. 2 seed in the tournament after placing second at the Great Midwest Hockey League playoffs in February.

For more information on the hockey team, including tournament updates, visit the Men’s Club Hockey Team Web site.