From breakaways to business: The Slukynsky brothers’ journey to becoming champions
In a season for the history books, the Western Michigan University hockey team captured its first-ever NCAA national championship. Among the champions were several students from WMU’s Haworth College of Business, who balanced high-stakes competition with the demands of academic excellence.
For Grant and Hampton Slukynsky, two brothers on the Bronco 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.
The brothers bring grit, focus and intellect to every faceoff, save and strategic decision. Both are studying at WMU Haworth, 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
The 2024-25 season was nothing short of historic for the Broncos. For the first time in program history, WMU won the NCAA Frozen Four tournament, capturing the national championship title in a thrilling run that captured the hearts of Broncos everywhere.
Clinching a double-overtime victory over University of Denver in the semifinals—the team set the stage for a championship showdown against Boston University. With unwavering energy and teamwork, the Broncos became 2025 NCAA National Champions.
“To be able to win a national championship at WMU feels amazing,” says Grant. “The support we’ve had from the fans, community and alumni has been incredible. I’m extremely grateful to be a part of this University.”
Both Slukynskys were vital players in securing the win. From early season training sessions to clutch postseason plays, including the nail-biting NCAA regional final against UMass (where Hampton made 28 saves in net), the team has displayed relentless resilience and focus.
“To be able to win the national championship is a dream come true, and to be able to win the first one here at WMU has been an amazing experience,” adds Hampton. “We’re super thankful for all the support we’ve received from everyone.”
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 was helpful for staying on track with coursework.”
One of those professors is Dr. Matthew Ross, associate professor of finance, who 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.”
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!”