WINONA, Minn. – Before heading into a well-earned holiday break, make sure to cheer on your Cardinals during one final week of action both at home and on the road!

WOMEN'S HOCKEY – RALLY FOR RILEY

This weekend, Saint Mary's proudly hosted its Rally for Riley game in support of women's hockey player and teammate Riley Vander Esch, who continues to bravely battle a diffuse midline glioma. On Thursday, Riley completed the first phase of her treatment: seven weeks of radiation.

The outpouring of support from our community has been extraordinary. Our Rally for Riley St. Jude fundraising page has already surpassed $22,000 and that total will continue to grow as ticket revenue, concessions, and Chuck-a-Puck proceeds are added. Every contribution benefits St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, supporting vital work in developing treatments for aggressive brain tumors and bringing hope to Riley and families everywhere.

On the ice, the Cardinals (3-5, 2-4) split their weekend with Concordia, earning a 4–3 win Friday before a 2–1 setback Saturday but the impact of the weekend extended far beyond the scoreboard. The team will now enjoy a brief break before returning to competition on Jan. 2 at UW–Stevens Point.

MEN'S HOCKEY – SENIOR NIGHT

The Saint Mary's men's hockey team (5-3-1, 3-1-0) also picked up a road split at Concordia, dropping Friday's contest before battling back for a 3–2 win on Saturday. This week, they close out the 2025 slate with a special home event.

On Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 7:00 p.m., the Cardinals host Dubuque for Senior Night, held in conjunction with the annual Teddy Bear Toss. Fans are encouraged to bring a new or gently used stuffed animal to throw on the ice after Saint Mary's first goal. Come support by helping spread cheer while celebrating our seniors.

MEN'S BASKETBALL ON THE ROAD

The Saint Mary's men's basketball team (0-9, 0-2) continues conference play this week with a road matchup against Hamline on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 7:00 p.m. inside the historic Hutton Arena. 

The Cardinals aim to bounce back after tough MIAC losses to Carleton and Gustavus Adolphus.

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL STAYS HOT

The Saint Mary's women's basketball team (7-1, 2-0) is off to a blazing start. After a dominant 64–48 win over Carleton and a thrilling 83–73 double-overtime victory over Gustavus Adolphus, the Cardinals have extended their winning streak to six games and boast a 7–1 record—their best start since the 2015–16 season.

The Cardinals wrap up their 2025 home schedule on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 7:00 p.m., when they host Hamline.

Make plans to support your Cardinals this week, let's finish 2025 strong. Go Cardinals!