Fraser Falcons Soar to Perfect Start in Inaugural Weekend

FALCONS SOAR TO PERFECT START IN INAUGURAL WEEKEND

Fraser opens franchise history with back-to-back victories, highlighted by two hat tricks and an electric home opener in front of more than 1,000 fans.

FRASER, MI — The Fraser Falcons couldn't have scripted a much better start to their inaugural season, opening the 2026-27 campaign with back-to-back victories over the Findlay Force, including a thrilling overtime win on the road and an impressive home-opening performance in front of more than 1,000 spectators at Big Boy Arena.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 — A HISTORIC FIRST WIN

The Falcons officially began their franchise history on Friday night in Findlay, Ohio, taking on the Findlay Force in a back-and-forth battle that required overtime to determine a winner.

In a game filled with offensive firepower and momentum swings, Fraser emerged with a thrilling 7-6 overtime victory, securing the first win in franchise history.

Forward Jesse Worrell delivered the heroics, scoring just 18 seconds into overtime to complete his hat trick and send the Falcons home victorious.

Worrell's three-goal performance led the offensive charge, while Maxx Savel added two goals of his own. Tim Schmitt recorded his first goal of the season, and Adam Kuhn contributed with a timely tip-in from the front of the net.

Despite the victory, Head Coach Sean Pilet acknowledged that the team still has work to do as the players continue developing chemistry.

"It was a gritty win. You could tell it was our first time playing together," Pilet said. "There's definitely room for improvement, but you have to give credit to Findlay. They competed the entire game and never took their foot off the gas pedal."

The hard-fought victory provided an exciting opening chapter for the Falcons as the team prepared for their highly anticipated home debut just 24 hours later.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 — FALCONS MAKE A STATEMENT ON HOME ICE

With the excitement of Friday's overtime victory still fresh, the Falcons returned to Fraser on Saturday evening for their inaugural home opener at Big Boy Arena.

In front of an electric home crowd of more than 1,000 spectators, Fraser delivered another seven-goal performance, controlling the pace for much of the contest and showcasing the puck-possession style the coaching staff hopes will define the team's identity.

The atmosphere inside Big Boy Arena was memorable, as Falcons fans filled the stands to welcome a new era of hockey to Fraser.

This time, it was Sam Gagnon stealing the spotlight, recording a hat trick to lead the Falcons offensively.

The scoring was spread throughout the lineup, with Trevor Pfeil, Maxx Savel, Matt Macumber, and Adam Kuhn each finding the back of the net.

While the Falcons' offensive production grabbed the headlines, goaltender Dallas Hurd played a significant role in the victory. Hurd delivered several outstanding saves throughout the contest, turning aside Findlay's scoring opportunities and keeping the Force off the scoresheet until late in the third period. His steady presence between the pipes allowed Fraser to maintain control of the game and build momentum offensively.

Unlike Friday's back-and-forth battle, Saturday's performance featured a more composed Falcons team that dictated possession, generated offensive opportunities, and established its presence throughout the game.

Pilet was pleased with the improvement from his group in just its second game together.

"Much better effort tonight and a lot closer to the style of hockey we want to play," Pilet said. "We want to possess the puck and dictate the pace of the game. I'm proud of the boys for coming out and doing exactly that."

The victory capped off a memorable inaugural weekend for the organization, with more than 1,000 fans helping create an unforgettable opening-night atmosphere at Big Boy Arena.

A PROMISING START TO A NEW ERA

Through the opening two games, the Falcons have already demonstrated their offensive depth, scoring 14 goals in two games while receiving contributions from throughout the lineup.

With hat tricks from Worrell and Gagnon on consecutive nights, along with three goals over the weekend from Savel and contributions from several other players, Fraser has shown the potential to be a dangerous offensive team.

Beyond the offensive production, Saturday's performance also highlighted the importance of strong goaltending and improved team structure. Hurd's ability to make timely saves, combined with the Falcons' commitment to puck possession, provided a glimpse of the identity the coaching staff is working to establish.

Perhaps just as significant as the results on the ice was the support surrounding the organization. A crowd exceeding 1,000 spectators for the inaugural home opener demonstrated the excitement for Falcons hockey and the opportunity to build something special in the Fraser community.

While the season is only beginning, the Falcons have established an early foundation built around determination, offensive creativity, and a commitment to improving with each game.

For a new franchise, two wins in two nights is certainly a strong way to introduce itself.

WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE FALCONS?

The Falcons will hit the road again on Saturday, October 17, traveling to Kalkaska for their next regular-season matchup.

Fraser will then return to Big Boy Arena on Friday, October 30, for a highly anticipated showdown against the Waterford Sharks in the Battle of M-59 with puck drop at 8:00 PM.

With regional bragging rights on the line, the matchup promises to bring another exciting night of hockey to Fraser.

Fans can purchase tickets online at www.fraserfalcons.com or at the Fraser Falcons ticket booth beginning at 7:00 PM on game night. 

The inaugural weekend may be in the books, but for the Fraser Falcons, the journey is just getting started.

Two games. Two wins. One new era of Falcons hockey.

LET'S FALCON GO!