Rutger McGroarty Eyes NCAA Hockey Glory with Michigan

Rutger McGroarty has his sights set on one goal this season - winning the NCAA hockey championship with the Michigan Wolverines. The 20-year-old forward, drafted 14th overall by the Winnipeg Jets in 2022, has been a driving force behind the Wolverines’ run to the Frozen Four, the NCAA’s equivalent of the Stanley Cup.

After a heartbreaking semifinal loss last year, McGroarty is determined to go one step further and capture the coveted national title. “You don’t come to Michigan to make it to the Frozen Four. You come to win national championships,” he stated emphatically. “I feel like we have the team to do it.”

McGroarty’s journey to the Frozen Four has been nothing short of remarkable. In November, he suffered a punctured lung and fractured rib, spending multiple days in the hospital. However, he defied the odds and recovered just in time to captain the U.S. World Junior team to a gold medal victory.

“I’m really proud of the year I’ve had,” said McGroarty, who tallied an impressive 52 points (16 goals, 36 assists) in 35 regular-season games, establishing himself as one of college hockey’s top scorers.

Despite his stellar performance, McGroarty remains hungry for more. “I pride myself on being a playoff hockey player, and I’ve always played well in those big games. These last (couple) games I haven’t played my best,” he acknowledged, referring to a couple of sub-par outings in the NCAA tournament.

With the Frozen Four upon them, McGroarty and the Wolverines have a golden opportunity to etch their names in the history books. Michigan, boasting nine national titles, is seeking its first championship since 1998.

McGroarty’s future with the Jets remains uncertain, as talks about potentially turning pro have been ongoing. However, his focus is firmly on the present, determined to prolong his collegiate career for as long as possible.

“Selfishly, for this team, hopefully I can delay the decision as long as possible,” McGroarty said, his eyes fixed on the ultimate prize.

As the Wolverines prepare for their semifinal showdown against Boston College on Thursday night, McGroarty’s unwavering determination and leadership will be crucial. With the support of hundreds of family members and friends in attendance, he has the chance to put an exclamation mark on an already incredible season.

For Rutger McGroarty and the Michigan Wolverines, the next 120 minutes could define a legacy and bring home the coveted NCAA hockey championship.