Wisconsin wins national title as Kirsten Simms shines in overtime

In an exhilarating championship match held in Minneapolis, USA, the Wisconsin Badgers triumphed over the Ohio State Buckeyes with a score of 4-3 after overtime. This remarkable event took place on an exciting Sunday, and it marked the third consecutive year that these two teams faced off for the NCAA women's hockey title. Wisconsin, having had an impressive season record, managed to force overtime thanks to Kirsten Simms, who executed a penalty shot successfully with just 18 seconds left in regulation play, which was possible due to a successful challenge that indicated an Ohio State player had illegally handled the puck in the crease. Simms's exceptional performance did not end there; in sudden-death overtime, she scored the decisive goal just 2:49 into the period, assisted by Lacey Eden. This overtime win granted Wisconsin their record-setting eighth national championship title. The game was intense and featured various shifts in momentum, with Ohio State initially taking control. Joy Dunne scored an unassisted shorthanded goal for Ohio State after capitalizing on a power imbalance created by a penalty incurred on a Wisconsin player, giving them an early lead. Shortly afterward, Laila Edwards responded for Wisconsin, equalizing just 12 seconds later. The back-and-forth nature of the game continued with the Buckeyes increasing their lead after scoring mere seconds into the second period, leading 3-1 at one point. Throughout the match, both teams showed tremendous skill and competition, drawing the attention of fans and observers alike. As the game progressed, Wisconsin's resilience shone through. Caroline Harvey was instrumental in bringing Wisconsin closer to parity with her goal just before the end of the second period, leaving Ohio State with a precarious 3-2 lead heading into the final frame. As the clock dwindled down, Simms’s heroic efforts in the final moments of the game secured the tie, allowing Wisconsin to extend the contest. The skill displayed during this match underscores the growing popularity and intensity of women’s college hockey, urging the sports community to pay closer attention. Mark Johnson, the head coach of the Badgers, has built a legacy in women’s hockey, securing eight national titles — a remarkable achievement that further cements Wisconsin’s status as a powerhouse in the sport. The game not only showcased the talents of key players like Simms and Eden but also highlighted the competitive spirit that drives teams like Ohio State, which has been a formidable opponent in recent seasons, having previously won the national title in 2022. Ultimately, this match has added another glorious chapter to the history of collegiate women's hockey, and the thrilling nature of the game will be remembered for years by fans and players alike. Both teams exhibited determination and grit, contributing to a memorable showdown that encapsulated all the excitement inherent to championship-level competition.