Wisconsin women’s hockey fans celebrate as the Badgers win the 2025 national title over Ohio State in overtime.

In an exhilarating display of resilience, grit, and skill, the Wisconsin Badgers women’s hockey team clinched the 2025 NCAA National Championship, defeating the Ohio State Buckeyes in a thrilling overtime battle. The atmosphere in the arena was electric as Wisconsin emerged victorious, capping off a season that was nothing short of spectacular. The victory, which ended with a 4-3 scoreline, has sent fans into a frenzy, marking one of the most memorable moments in Wisconsin women’s hockey history.

For fans, players, and coaches alike, the game was a true testament to the strength and determination of this elite team. After a season filled with ups and downs, including close calls and several hard-fought victories, the Badgers were able to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. Their triumph over Ohio State not only showcased their skill and teamwork but also underscored the growth and maturation of the team under head coach Mark Johnson’s leadership.

This article will take a closer look at the 2025 National Championship game, how Wisconsin managed to secure their overtime victory, and the significance of the win for the program, the players, and the fans. It will also explore the broader context of Wisconsin women’s hockey and their rise to prominence in college hockey, and how this victory will impact the future of the team.

A Battle of Titans: Wisconsin vs. Ohio State

The championship game between the Wisconsin Badgers and the Ohio State Buckeyes was highly anticipated, as both teams had been dominant throughout the season. Ohio State entered the game with an impressive record, led by a well-balanced team that boasted one of the top offenses in the country. However, Wisconsin, with their combination of speed, defensive prowess, and explosive offense, was determined to reclaim their national title after a few seasons of near misses.

From the moment the puck dropped, it was clear that both teams were prepared for a fierce and competitive showdown. Ohio State struck first with an early goal, sending waves of tension through the arena, but Wisconsin quickly answered back with a goal of their own. The game then turned into a back-and-forth battle, with each team matching the other’s intensity.

As the game progressed, it was evident that the stakes couldn’t have been higher. The Badgers’ defense, anchored by senior goaltender Kennedy Blair, remained steady under pressure, while their offense—led by standout forward Jesse Compher—continued to generate opportunities. Despite Ohio State’s strong push and their ability to take the lead multiple times, Wisconsin’s never-give-up mentality kept them in the game.

The game was a classic example of two powerhouses in college hockey, and by the time regulation time expired, the score was tied 3-3. The crowd was on edge, fully aware that the next goal would decide the outcome of the championship.

Overtime Drama: Wisconsin’s Golden Goal

With the championship on the line, the teams entered overtime, and the tension in the arena reached a fever pitch. Overtime in hockey is always a moment of high drama, and this game was no exception. Wisconsin’s players remained calm, trusting in their preparation and ability to execute under pressure.

The first few minutes of overtime were a back-and-forth affair, with both teams getting a few scoring chances but unable to capitalize. Then, in a moment that will be forever etched in Wisconsin hockey lore, it happened. Jesse Compher, one of the Badgers’ top forwards, skated into the Ohio State zone and threaded a perfect pass to freshman forward Grace Wnek. Wnek, with ice in her veins, took a quick shot on net, sending the puck past Ohio State’s goaltender to secure Wisconsin’s 4-3 overtime victory and their sixth NCAA National Championship.

The crowd erupted in joyous celebration as the Wisconsin players rushed onto the ice, mobbing Wnek in a scene of pure elation. For Wnek, who had been a key contributor throughout the season, the championship-winning goal was a crowning achievement in her young career and a fitting reward for her hard work and determination.

The Heroine: Grace Wnek’s Journey

While Wisconsin’s entire team played a crucial role in the victory, it was Grace Wnek who became the hero of the day with her overtime goal. Wnek, a freshman, had already proven herself to be one of the most promising young players in the country. Her ability to stay composed in the face of such a high-pressure moment was a testament to her poise and confidence.

Throughout the season, Wnek had been a standout player for the Badgers, showcasing her ability to score, create plays, and contribute to both ends of the ice. Her performance in the National Championship game was the culmination of a season that saw her grow into a key player for Wisconsin. Her chemistry with Jesse Compher, who assisted on the game-winning goal, was evident throughout the game, as the two players consistently generated scoring opportunities.

For Wnek, the goal was not just a career highlight, but also a moment that would forever bond her to the Wisconsin hockey program and its fans. The emotional scene on the ice after the goal—Wnek being lifted in celebration by her teammates, tears of joy streaming down her face—was one of the most unforgettable moments in the history of Wisconsin women’s hockey.

The Significance of the Win for Wisconsin Women’s Hockey

For Wisconsin, the 2025 NCAA National Championship victory represents a major milestone in the program’s history. The Badgers have long been one of the top teams in women’s college hockey, but this title is particularly significant, as it reaffirms their status as one of the elite programs in the nation.

Head coach Mark Johnson, who has been at the helm of Wisconsin women’s hockey since 2002, has been the driving force behind the team’s success. Under his leadership, the Badgers have won multiple national championships, and Johnson has built a program known for its excellence in every facet of the game. The 2025 title is a reflection of his commitment to developing talent, building a cohesive team, and fostering a culture of success.

For Johnson, the 2025 championship win was especially meaningful, as it represented the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance. The Badgers had fallen short in recent seasons, but the team’s resilience, combined with the leadership of experienced players and the emergence of young talent like Wnek, allowed Wisconsin to reclaim the top spot in college hockey.

This win also solidifies Wisconsin as a powerhouse in the world of women’s hockey. The Badgers have long been known for their elite talent, and the program’s ability to continually develop players who excel at the highest level has made them a fixture in NCAA tournament contention. With the 2025 championship win, Wisconsin further cements its legacy and proves that the program’s success is no fluke.

The Wisconsin Fanbase: A Unified Celebration

For Wisconsin fans, the 2025 National Championship victory was a moment to celebrate, reflect, and revel in the team’s success. The Badgers have a passionate and dedicated fanbase, one that has supported the team through thick and thin. Whether it’s cheering them on at LaBahn Arena or following their games across the country, Wisconsin women’s hockey fans have always shown up for their team.

After the victory, social media was flooded with messages of celebration from fans who had witnessed the game from home, as well as those who had traveled to the arena to cheer the team on in person. The shared joy of the victory united the Wisconsin fanbase, as fans reflected on the significance of the win and what it meant for the future of the program.

As with any championship victory, the celebration extended beyond the ice rink. In Madison, the streets were filled with fans sporting Badger gear, honking horns, and celebrating the team’s incredible achievement. The victory had brought the entire community together, creating an atmosphere of pride and celebration that would last for days.

The Road Ahead: Building on the Legacy

The 2025 National Championship win is not the end of the road for Wisconsin women’s hockey, but rather a new beginning. With a strong foundation in place, the Badgers will look to build on this success and continue their dominance in the years to come.

The victory over Ohio State in overtime serves as a reminder of the program’s potential and its ability to compete with the best in the country. As the Badgers look toward the future, they will focus on recruiting top talent, developing their players, and continuing to build a program that consistently challenges for national titles.

For the current players, especially those like Wnek who delivered the game-winning goal, the victory is an unforgettable moment that will motivate them to continue striving for excellence. For the next generation of Badger hockey players, this victory sets a standard of success and shows what can be achieved with hard work, determination, and a commitment to team goals.