Marquette Junior Hockey and Northern Michigan University have announced a partnership agreement that will provide the area youth hockey program with numerous benefits for both players and the sport.

As part of the agreement, Northern Michigan University will designate one of its hockey games each season as Youth Hockey Night, providing 20 complimentary tickets for each home game that can be distributed throughout the youth hockey organization. Additionally, Marquette Junior Hockey will be advertised in the Wildcats’ home Berry Events Center and discounts will be provided for its players to join the Young Wildcat Club. Fundraising opportunities such as being group game ushers, 50-50 raffle ticket sellers, and chuck-a-puck sellers are also being offered.

“Marquette Junior Hockey appreciates the opportunities and visibility this agreement will provide for our players,” said Ryan Higbie, President of Marquette Junior Hockey in a recent news release. “We’d like to thank Coach (Grant) Potulny and (athletic director) Rick Comley for their enthusiasm for this partnership and look forward to a great season.”

The agreement also brings NMU hockey coaches and players into activities to enhance development of MJH players and coaches.

“We are excited to partner with Marquette Junior Hockey and are committed to helping grow the sport and develop young players locally,” said Comley, a former NMU head hockey coach himself. “This is a win-win partnership