Ferris State University Hockey, Big Rapids

On April 5, 2012, the Bulldogs found themselves down 1-0 in their NCAA Frozen Four semi-final match-up against Union. Undeterred, they tied the game in the second period, and ultimately won on a clutch goal late in the final period. The victory vaulted Ferris State into its first-ever National Championship game, where it ultimately fell just short of a title. Still, it was another feat added to a list of accomplishments that has been growing since the team’s first season in 1975. In that time, the Bulldogs have also earned the distinction as the nation’s first team to eclipse 30 wins, which they did in 2002-03. Much of the university’s icy success has come under the tutelage of Bob Daniels, a living legend who has coached the team since 1992 and, in the process, has earned the right to be dipped in gold the moment he retires.