DUDLEY, Mass. (1/27/2025) – Freshman
Gustav Sandberg and sophomore
Ema Jaskova both returned form Torino, Italy as they represented their home countries in ice hockey at the 2025 FISU World University Games – Winter from January 12 to January 22.
Sandberg who hails from Stockholm, Sweden played in all five games for the Swedish National Team averaged 12:44 minutes of ice time in the tournament. Sandberg has yet to appear in a game for the Bison, due to missing the beginning of the season due to an injury.
"Participating in the FISU World University Winter Games was an incredible experience. The entire event, from the ceremonies to the hockey games, was amazing. Getting to represent Sweden was super cool and something I'll always remember."
"Having Gustav get the experience to play at the World University Games will be a memory he will have for a lifetime. It is a great accomplishment and a testament of his hard work." Head Coach
Alex Gacek added, "It is great to have Nichols College represented overseas"
Jaskova who arrived to Dudley from Opatovce and Nitrou, Slovakia appeared in seven games for Slovakia scoring one goal and adding an assist over her time. Jaskova scored one goal against Great Britain in a 20-0 win in the opening match for Slovakia.
Jaskova has five goals and three assists in 11 games for the Bison this season. She leads the team on goals and is tied for the most points with eight points.
"I was truly honored to represent both my country and Nichols College at the FISU Winter University Games." Jaskova added, "From the unforgettable opening ceremony to the final game, the entire experience felt like a true Olympic event, both in its scale and the way we were treated. Competing against top-tier teams push me to my limits, teaching me invaluable lessons and providing me with experiences that will shape me both as an athlete and as a person. The intensity, challenges and high-level competition helped me grow, and I will carry these lessons with me for the rest of my career."
"While it's difficult to lose a player for 7 games, there is no better reason than the chance to represent your country on the world stage." Head Coach
Michael Barrett added, "Ema was in touch constantly and we were routing each other on! We are so proud of her accomplishments and hope that this experience can lead to playing in the Olympics in the future. Needless to say we are excited to get her back where she can pick right back up on her scoring as we push for a playoff run."
The women's hockey team returns to Levy Rink on Friday, January 31, with puck drop set for 5:40 p.m. as they face off against Johnson & Wales in Conference of New Engalnd (CNE) play. The men's team will head to Maine and face off agianst No. 11 UNE on Friday night from the Harold Alfond Forum, with puck drop at 7:00 p.m.
