Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, January 9, 2026
The Boston College men’s hockey team opens the new year with an exhibition game against Stonehill at Kelley Rink, aiming to solidify their strategies and teamwork. This event is significant not just for the players but also for the Boston sports community, showcasing the spirit of competition and local pride. With a strong record and a commitment to excellence, the Eagles are set to engage fans and bolster their performance in the upcoming season, making this exhibition a critical part of their journey.
Eagles Face Stonehill: Boston College Hockey Kicks Off 2026 Season
Boston College men’s hockey returns to Kelley Rink for a critical exhibition against Stonehill, setting the stage for a season rooted in athletic excellence and community spirit.
Boston, MA — The No. 13 Boston College men’s hockey team opens its 2026 calendar year this Friday at Kelley Rink with an exhibition against Stonehill. The puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, marking an important moment for the Eagles as they prepare for a competitive season. This exhibition game against the Stonehill Skyhawks is more than just a warm-up; it represents the persistent drive for excellence inherent in collegiate athletics and the sustained commitment to community engagement that defines the Boston sports landscape.
As the Eagles take to the ice, the event underscores the enduring value of spirited competition and the disciplined pursuit of achievement. Such collegiate contests contribute significantly to the vibrant athletic culture of Boston and the broader Massachusetts region, fostering a sense of shared purpose and local pride. The ongoing dedication to developing student-athletes and providing engaging experiences for fans highlights the integral role that university programs play within the community.
The Return to Kelley Rink: A Showcase of Collegiate Athletics
The Boston College Eagles, currently holding an 11-6-1 overall record and a 7-3-0 standing in Hockey East, will utilize this exhibition game as a strategic opportunity. The Stonehill Skyhawks enter the contest with a 4-13-2 overall record. The game, scheduled for January 9, 2026, at Kelley Rink, provides the Eagles a chance to refine their strategies and build team cohesion as they embark on the new calendar year. Exhibition matches are vital for evaluating player performance and integrating new tactics, embodying the proactive approach necessary for competitive success. This event marks the start of a demanding schedule that will see the Eagles resume regular season action next weekend with a home-and-home series against Providence.
Economic and Community Impact of Local Collegiate Sports
Collegiate athletic events, such as this men’s hockey exhibition, contribute notably to the local economy in Boston, MA. These events draw spectators, parents, and alumni, leading to increased activity for local businesses including restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments. The presence of robust university athletic programs enhances the city’s appeal, complementing the strong professional sports scene. The Massachusetts economy benefits substantially from its higher education institutions, with private colleges and universities collectively contributing an estimated annual statewide economic impact of $71.1 billion, supporting over 320,000 jobs. This includes significant spillover effects from student living expenditures and visitors, underscoring how private initiative and community support are foundational to sustaining a thriving sports and educational ecosystem. Beyond direct revenue, the cultural vibrancy generated by Boston MA sports helps attract and retain talent, a long-term benefit for the city’s economic development.
Cultivating Talent: The Role of University Programs and Investment
Boston College’s commitment to athletic excellence is evident in its sustained investment in facilities and coaching. University programs actively foster student-athlete development, promoting a balance between rigorous academics and high-level athletic competition. Scholarships are a critical tool in recruiting student-athletes, and Boston College’s student-athlete scholarship budget has risen to $30 million, with endowments covering less than half of this need. Efforts like the “Greater Heights: The Campaign for Boston College Athletics,” a $150 million capital campaign, demonstrate the significant private investment and alumni support dedicated to enhancing the athletic program. This strategic fundraising aims to bolster student-athlete formation, strengthen competitive excellence, and improve facilities, reflecting an entrepreneurial spirit in advancing the university’s athletic mission. Such initiatives are crucial in a competitive national college sports landscape, ensuring athletes have the necessary resources to succeed both academically and athletically.
The Broader Landscape of Massachusetts Collegiate Sports
Massachusetts is home to a dynamic collegiate sports environment, with numerous institutions offering diverse athletic programs. Boston College is one of several NCAA Division I institutions in the state. The state’s colleges feature a wide array of sports, with ice hockey being a prominent one for several institutions, including Boston College, Boston University, UMass, Merrimack, and Northeastern, all competing in Hockey East. The focus on fostering athletic talent and the spirit of fair play extends across various sports and divisions, providing opportunities for thousands of student-athletes. The healthy competition among these institutions elevates the overall quality of sports within the Commonwealth, showcasing the value of disciplined effort and strategic growth.
Looking Ahead: The Eagles’ Season and Future Prospects
The exhibition against Stonehill serves as a vital bridge for the Eagles as they transition into the heart of their 2025-26 Hockey East schedule. Boston College is currently ranked No. 13 in both the USCHO.com and USA Hockey national polls, a testament to their performance thus far in the season. Their season has seen notable victories, including a 4-3 win over Lake Superior State in the Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off. The team’s proactive engagement in non-conference play and tournaments demonstrates their commitment to strategic preparation and self-reliance in a demanding athletic environment. Upcoming conference games against opponents like Providence, UNH, and Boston University will test their mettle and further highlight the competitive drive inherent in college athletics Boston.
Fostering Engagement and Responsible Growth
Collegiate sports events foster a strong sense of community, drawing together students, alumni, and local residents. The enthusiasm generated by these contests reinforces the importance of responsible growth within athletic programs, ensuring that student welfare and academic success remain paramount. Private partnerships, such as the relationship between Boston College Athletics and firms like Senné, highlight the role of private initiative in supporting university sports, providing resources that enhance the student-athlete experience and maintain competitive programs. This collaborative approach underscores the community’s self-reliance in building and sustaining robust athletic endeavors.
Boston College’s exhibition game against Stonehill today represents more than just a hockey match; it embodies the enduring values of competition, self-improvement, and community collaboration that are fundamental to collegiate athletics. We encourage all residents and fans to actively support Boston College hockey and engage with the various college athletics Boston has to offer. By doing so, we contribute to the vibrant spirit of our local sports scene and affirm the positive impact these programs have on our community and state.
FAQ Section
When is the Boston College men’s hockey exhibition game against Stonehill?
The exhibition game is this Friday, January 9, 2026.
Where will the exhibition game take place?
The game will be held at Kelley Rink in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.
What time is the puck drop for the game?
Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
What is Boston College men’s hockey team’s current ranking?
The Boston College men’s hockey team is currently ranked No. 13 in both the USCHO.com and USA Hockey national polls.
What is Boston College’s overall record and Hockey East record?
The Eagles have an 11-6-1 overall record and a 7-3-0 record in Hockey East.
What is Stonehill’s overall record?
The Stonehill Skyhawks have a 4-13-2 overall record.
Will the game be streamed?
Yes, the game will be streamed live on ESPN+.
Feature Table: Boston College Men’s Hockey vs. Stonehill Exhibition
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event | Men’s Hockey Exhibition Game |
| Teams | Boston College Eagles vs. Stonehill Skyhawks |
| Date | Friday, January 9, 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM (Eastern Time) |
| Location | Kelley Rink, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts |
| Boston College Ranking | No. 13 (USCHO.com and USA Hockey national polls) |
| Boston College Overall Record | 11-6-1 |
| Boston College Hockey East Record | 7-3-0 |
| Stonehill Overall Record | 4-13-2 |
| Live Stream | ESPN+ |
Now Happening on X
- @BCPikesPeak (Jan 5, 2026): The Eagles are back at Conte this week for an exhibition game against Stonehill! View on X
- @EaglesHSHockey (Jan 8, 2026): Eagles score a late goal to take a 3-2 lead in the third period, assisted by key players in an exciting finish. View on X
- @CCSUBlueDevils (Jan 8, 2026): Gameday announcement for CCSU women’s basketball at Stonehill on Thursday at 6pm, streaming on NEC Front Row. View on X
- @ncbison (Jan 4, 2026): Nichols College men’s ice hockey wins 3-1 against SUNY Potsdam in the Boston Landing Collegiate Invitational opener, advancing to the championship. View on X
- @CCHAHockey (Jan 3, 2026): BSU Beavers rally from a 2-0 deficit to tie Minnesota 3-3 in exhibition play, with strong assists from Connor McClennon. View on X
- @deltaicehawks (Jan 4, 2026): Beckett Cross ties the game with a powerful shot just after a power play ends, keeping the score level in the second period. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Holy Cross Women’s Ice Hockey Faces Boston College in Showdown
Grier’s Grit Shines Amidst Notre Dame Setback
Boston High School Hockey: A Season of Grit and Glory Ahead
Hull High Hoops: Resilience and Resolve on the Court
Boston Innovation Powers LA28 Games
Crimson Stumble in Ivy League Opener Against Resurgent Dartmouth
Suffolk Women’s Basketball Struggles Against UNE
Suffolk Rams Claim Victory Over UNE in Conference Matchup
MIT Women’s Basketball Secures Victory Over Ranked Trinity College
Boston University Adds NHL Prospect Tynan Lawrence to Roster
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
