From breakaways to business: The Slukynsky Brothers’ Frozen Four journey

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—For Grant and Hampton Slukynsky, two brothers on the Western Michigan University hockey team, playing for the University isn’t just about the accolades but is a proving ground for what they’ve learned as students both on the ice and in the classroom.

Hailing from Warroad, Minnesota, the brothers bring grit, focus and intellect to every faceoff, save and strategic decision. Both are studying at WMU’s Haworth College of Business, where they’ve found the same principles that drive championship teams to the Frozen Four—adaptability, leadership and trust—also empower their education.

“At WMU Haworth, I’ve learned the importance of communication, strategic thinking and leadership, which are all crucial to our team as well,” says Hampton, a goalie and pre-business major. “Whether it’s managing my time effectively, understanding team dynamics or preparing for high-pressure situations, my experiences at Western are shaping me into a well-rounded person.”

His brother Grant, a finance major and center on the team, echoes that sentiment. “I’ve learned how adaptability and problem solving go hand in hand with being a good teammate,” he says. “On the ice, you have to read plays and make quick decisions. In business, it’s the same—you have to collaborate, analyze and execute.”

A season to remember

This year’s run to the Frozen Four has been historic. It’s the first time in program history the Broncos have advanced this far in the NCAA championship. Both Slukynskys have been vital players in that success. From early season training sessions to the nail-biting NCAA regional final against UMass (where Hampton made 28 saves in net), the team has displayed relentless resilience and focus.

“My favorite moment was winning the final in the regional against UMass,” says Hampton. “It was a full-circle moment—everything we’ve worked for coming together in one game.”

Grant pulled off heroic plays during their previous game against Minnesota State in double overtime—scoring the game-winning goal. “Taking it one day at a time has been a key for me this season. Not looking too far ahead and just staying in the moment has worked well for me,” adds Grant.

Business lessons on and off the ice

Their WMU Haworth experiences have helped shape how the Slukynskys prepare for challenges—whether that’s analyzing plays in the offensive zone or strategizing for a class presentation.

“I’ve developed a mindset focused on preparation, teamwork and finding ways to add value to every situation. Long term, I hope to apply this same mindset and ability to work under pressure in my future career, whether in hockey or business,” says Grant.

“Being a goalie requires quick decision making, mental toughness and staying composed under pressure,” says Hampton. “Those skills directly translate to business. I’m interested in sports management, finance or entrepreneurship after hockey. WMU Haworth has a great reputation, and I know what I’m learning is setting me up for success.”

Grant adds that working closely with professors and leaning into group work has given him an edge in his education.

“I’ve always been interested in finance and numbers, but talking to professors about their experiences has been the most valuable for me so far,” he says. “They’ve been very supportive of our team this season, which has been helpful for staying on track with coursework.”

One of those professors is Dr. Matthew Ross, associate professor of finance, who has had Grant as a student in his Introduction to Financial Markets course. “Grant is the definition of a scholar-athlete—he excels just as much in the classroom as he does on the ice. Despite the intense travel demands of WMU’s incredible hockey season, he stayed ahead of schedule and not only submitted high-quality work on time but often worked ahead, completing his Bloomberg Market Concepts certification before many of his peers. His time management and commitment to academics are truly outstanding.”

Stands of support

Both brothers emphasize the strength of the WMU community—on the ice, in the classroom and in the stands.

“The professors and staff at WMU Haworth have been incredibly encouraging—understanding the unique demands of being a student-athlete, while challenging me to grow academically and professionally,” says Hampton. “I’m grateful for my teammates, coaches, professors and the entire WMU community for their support and for pushing me to be my best. As we head into the Frozen Four, I’m excited to embrace the moment, compete at the highest level, and represent this University.”

Grant agrees that what makes Bronco hockey and WMU great are the people. “I'm incredibly grateful to be part of this program and to compete alongside such an amazing group of guys. The support from the entire WMU community has been unreal, and we can't thank the fans enough!”

As the Slukynsky brothers lace up for the biggest contest of their college careers, they carry not only the hopes of the Bronco Nation, but also the business principles that will guide them long after the final buzzer.

Bronco hockey will face Denver in the Frozen Four on Thursday, April 10, in St. Louis at 5 p.m. ET/4 p.m. CT on ESPN2/ESPN+.

To learn more about the Haworth College of Business, visit the website.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.