Icepack Face Liberty in Weekend Home-and-Home

RALEIGH, NC – After winning their home opener last Friday, the Icepack returns to Invisalign Arena Sept. 12 for the first of a home-and-home series against Liberty. 

Forward Austin Finch recapped the team’s first game and looked ahead to the weekend, focusing on the chance to play his brother, Ryan, for the first time at a collegiate level

“I've never played against Ryan before, and I think it'll be good. My family is really excited, and we'll have a lot of people here to watch Ryan,” he said. “It's his first time playing here in Raleigh since he moved away to Cape Cod, so it'll be really good. I'm excited.”

Finch said he is looking forward to the chance to put his brother into the boards this weekend and limit any point-scoring potential Ryan has against the Icepack. He also expressed confidence in the team’s ability to earn another win.  

Despite the season-opening victory against Georgia, Finch admitted the team got off to a slow start. With 16 new members on the roster, he said it is only natural that the group needs time to gel. Still, Finch is optimistic that additional practice, time together, and several off weekends will help strengthen on-ice chemistry.  

Liberty opened its season with a 4-1 win against West Chester. The Flames have been a tough opponent in past years, and NC State will need to dial in to counter Liberty’s strong offense during the two-game series, which includes Friday’s home matchup and Icepack’s first road test on Saturday. 

Despite the past struggles with Liberty, Finch said he is confident. “I think the guys get a dub this weekend.”

Puck drop for Friday’s game is set for 8:45 p.m. at Invisalign Arena. The Icepack will then travel to Lynchburg, Va., for the second game of the series on Saturday. Both games will be streamed on ESPN+.