ST. LOUIS – The Maryville M1 Ice Hockey team is back on the ice for the first time in the spring semester, returning to action this weekend with a key home series against the Missouri State Bears at the Maryville University Hockey Center.

After a demanding fall, the Saints enter the second half of the season with some momentum. The beginning of the year saw the Saints get tested by not only by some of the top programs in ACHA play, but also battling multiple NCAA Division I opponents.

Ten regular season games remain before the ACHA National tournament, with the dance taking place in St. Louis. Currently ranked No. 9 in the nation, the Saints will open the spring slate against the No. 18-ranked Bears in a two-game series. Friday, Jan. 8's contest is set for 8:15 p.m., followed by a 5:15 p.m. puck drop on Saturday evening.

Saturday's contest also marks Maryville Hockey's annual First Responders Game, a special night dedicated to honoring those who serve and protect our community. Proceeds from the game will benefit the BackStoppers, an organization that provides critical support to wounded first responders and their families throughout the region.