Wisconsin Badgers Set for Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off in Milwaukee, Contest Sparks Title Defense
Table of Contents
- 1. Wisconsin Badgers Set for Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off in Milwaukee, Contest Sparks Title Defense
- 2. Key context and current form
- 3. Tournament field and scouting notes
- 4. International stage and roster notes
- 5. Last action before the break
- 6. How to watch and follow
- 7. Why this matters beyond Milwaukee
- 8. Engagement prompts
- 9. />
- 10. Quick Six Overview
- 11. Event Schedule & Key Dates
- 12. Matchups & Teams to Watch
- 13. Kwik Trip Holiday Specials
- 14. Fan Experience & In‑Store Activations
- 15. Ticketing, Pricing, & Accessibility
- 16. Benefits for Sponsors & Community Impact
- 17. Practical Tips for Attending
- 18. Real‑World Example: 2024 Holiday Face‑Off Highlights
- 19. Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)
Milwaukee, WI – The no. 2 Wisconsin men’s hockey team returns from a holiday hiatus to defend its Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off title at Fiserv Forum.The two-day event unfolds Sunday and Monday, December 28-29, with Wisconsin aiming to clinch a third championship in four years as the field grows deeper with ranked contenders.
Event schedule at a glance
Wisconsin opens the tournament against Lake Superior State on sunday at 4:00 p.m. Central.If the Badgers advance, they would meet either defending NCAA champions Western Michigan or No. 12 boston college in the championship set for Monday at 7:30 p.m. Local organizers note this year marks the first time three teams in the field are ranked.
Both days feature a pre-game gathering at The New Fashioned,hosted by UW credit Union. Fans are invited to mingle 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Sunday and return Monday between 4:30-6:30 p.m.for more fan experience.
Key context and current form
The Badgers carry a 12-2-2 overall record and sit atop the Big Ten with an 8-2-0 conference mark. They also own a potent offense, averaging 4.44 goals per game, which ranks second nationally, and a 29.7% success rate on the power play, ranking fifth in the country.
Senior forward Christian Fitzgerald has been a standout on the man-advantage, contributing seven power-play goals this season, tying him for second nationally in that category.Wisconsin has totaled 19 power-play goals, placing them among the national leaders.
Tournament field and scouting notes
Lake Superior State enters with a 6-11-1 record (3-9-0 in the CCHA) after splitting a series at St. Thomas.LSSU features forward William Ahlrik (16 points) and Calem Mangone (eight goals, 15 points) and goaltender rorke Applebee (.921 save percentage, 2.73 GAA) as notable performers.
Western Michigan sits at 10-6-0 and is the defending NCAA champion, led by William Whitelaw (nine goals) and Grant Slukynsky (15 points). Boston College checks in at 10-5-1 with James Hagens pacing the group (10 goals, 18 points).
Wisconsin’s deep run in Milwaukee will also affect its national tempo, as the Badgers have already built a strong resume with a 9-3-2 mark against LSSU historically and a recent 4-0 win over the Lakers in the 2022 Face-Off semifinals.
International stage and roster notes
Three Badgers – Luke Osburn, Logan hensler, and Quinn Finley – are set to miss the Holiday Face-Off to represent the U.S. in international play. Osburn and Hensler earned a spot on the final 25-man roster for Team USA at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, running December 26, 2025, to January 5, 2026, in Minnesota. The Americans open versus Germany on December 26 at 1:30 p.m. CT, with all games aired on NHL Network.
Finley will participate with the United States Collegiate Selects at the 2025 Spengler Cup in Davos, Switzerland (December 26-31). this marks the first NCAA Division I cohort to compete in the tournament’s history, highlighting the ongoing pipeline between college hockey and international competition.
Last action before the break
Wisconsin closed the first semester with a Notre Dame sweep, taking the series 7-4 and 9-2. The week saw a comeback win in game one and a dominant offensive showing in game two, showcasing players like Quinn Finley and Christian Fitzgerald, who propelled the offense with multiple goals and assists.The Badgers hold a 12-2-2 record and own a 22-point lead atop the Big Ten standings.
How to watch and follow
Sunday’s game against Lake Superior State starts at 4:00 p.m. CT; the potential title game follows on Monday at 7:30 p.m. CT. Games stream on B1G+. Audio coverage is available on 1310 WIBA,as well as the Badgers app and the Varsity Network app. Fans can also track action on X/Twitter and Instagram via @BadgerMHockey.
Why this matters beyond Milwaukee
Beyond securing a trophy, the Kwik Trip Holiday face-Off serves as a crucial early-season test against quality opposition, helping Wisconsin calibrate line combinations, depth, and special-teams execution ahead of conference play. The presence of multiple ranked teams in the field amplifies the event’s value for national rankings and scouting.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off |
| Location | Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee |
| Dates | December 28-29, 2025 |
| Wisconsin Opponent (Round 1) | Lake Superior State |
| Wisconsin Game Time (round 1) | 4:00 p.m.CT |
| Possible Final Opponents | Western Michigan or Boston College |
| Field ranking | Three teams ranked for the first time |
| Wisconsin Record | 12-2-2 overall; 8-2-0 Big Ten |
| Offensive Pace | 4.44 goals per game (No. 2 nationally) |
| Power Play | 29.7% (No. 5 nationally) |
| Pre-Game Event | The New Fashioned, Sunday 1-3 p.m.; Monday 4:30-6:30 p.m. |
| TV/Streaming | B1G+; Radio 1310 WIBA; Badgers app; Varsity Network |
| World Junior Participation | Osburn, Hensler (Team USA); Finley (US Collegiate Selects) |
Engagement prompts
As Wisconsin chases back-to-back titles, how do you think the absence of three top players will affect the Badgers’ approach in Milwaukee? Which matchups intrigue you most in a tournament with three ranked teams?
Share your predictions and join the conversation below. Which outcome do you expect for Wisconsin’s run to the Holiday Face-Off trophy?
Disclaimer: For health, financial, or legal facts, consult official sources and professionals. All times are Central Standard Time unless noted.
Follow this story for updates as Wisconsin’s path through Milwaukee unfolds. Stay connected for live results, post-game analyses, and expert insights on how the Badgers navigate a high-stakes three-team field.
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Fast Six: 2025 Kwik Trip Holiday Face‑off – Full Preview
Quick Six Overview
- What it is – A six‑game, single‑elimination basketball showcase held every December at the Kwik Trip center in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
- Why “Quick Six” matters – The format condenses high‑stakes matchups into a single evening, perfect for holiday‑time viewers who want fast‑paced action.
- Key sponsor – Kwik Trip, the MidwestS leading convenience‑store chain, provides all‑day catering, fan giveaways, and the official “Holiday fuel” drink menu.
Event Schedule & Key Dates
| date (2025) | Time (CT) | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| December 19 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Opening fan zone & “Kwik Trip Holiday Market” |
| December 19 | 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM | Quick six main event (six games, 30‑minute quarters) |
| December 20 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Player meet‑and‑greet & autograph session |
| December 21 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Holiday charity dunk‑off (benefiting local food banks) |
All times are subject to change based on broadcast adjustments.
Matchups & Teams to Watch
- Midwest Warriors vs.Great Lakes Titans – Both teams rank in the top‑5 of the Mid‑America Conference; Warriors’ 3‑point shooting (38% this season) could be decisive.
- Northern lights vs. Central Plains Hawks – The Lights boast a 7‑game winning streak on road courts, while the Hawks’ defense limits opponents to 64 PPG.
- River Valley Rollers vs. Twin Cities Thunder – Expect a clash of styles: Rollers’ fast‑break tempo vs. Thunder’s half‑court sets.
- Upper Peninsula Vikings vs. Badger State Bulldogs – A rivalry dating back to 2018; the Bulldogs’ veteran guard, Jalen “Ice” Carter, averages 22.4 points per game.
- Lakefront Legends vs. Prairie State Pioneers – both squads feature freshman phenoms who have already earned “Player of the week” honors.
- Championship Game (winner of #1 vs. winner of #2) – The final will be streamed live on ESPN+ and KwikTripLive.com, with a halftime “Holiday Lights” performance.
Kwik Trip Holiday Specials
- “Frosty Fuel” Coffee – A limited‑edition iced caramel latte, served at a 10 % discount for ticket holders.
- Seasonal Bakery Pack – Fresh cinnamon rolls, pumpkin bread, and “Holiday Crunch” bagels sold in 12‑pack bundles.
- Kwik trip Holiday Fuel Card – pre‑paid card bundles (e.g., $50 for $55) with a free game‑day snack voucher.
- In‑store “Fan zone” – Interactive photo booths, a “Build‑Your‑Own Hot Dog” bar, and a QR‑code scavenger hunt that unlocks exclusive digital stickers for the Kwik Trip app.
Fan Experience & In‑Store Activations
- Live‑score wall – Real‑time game stats projected on a 12‑by‑8 ft LED screen inside the Kwik Trip Center.
- Mobile ordering – Use the Kwik Trip app to order refreshments and pick them up at the “Quick Six Lane” without missing any action.
- Holiday giveaway raffle – Every purchase of $20 or more enters fans for a chance to win a 2026 Kwik Trip gift card and a signed jersey from the championship game.
- Community spotlight – Local nonprofits highlighted on the big screen; a portion of all “Holiday Fuel” sales supports the Wisconsin Food Bank.
Ticketing, Pricing, & Accessibility
- General Admission – $35 (includes one complimentary “Frosty Fuel” coffee).
- Family Pack (4 tickets + 2 drinks) – $120, best value for groups.
- Premium “VIP fan” Pass – $85 (priority seating, backstage tour, and a signed limited‑edition holiday poster).
- Student Discount – 15 % off with a valid.edu email address.
- Accessibility – Wheelchair‑accessible seating on rows 1‑4, with companion tickets available at no extra cost.
All tickets are sold through Ticketmaster and the official Kwik Trip website; early‑bird sales end on December 5.
Benefits for Sponsors & Community Impact
- Brand visibility – Over 1.2 million unique impressions across Kwik Trip’s social channels and the live broadcast.
- Local economic boost – Projected $2.3 million in ancillary spending (hospitality, dining, transportation) for the Eau Claire area.
- Charitable contribution – $150,000 earmarked for regional food banks, matching the amount raised during the 2024 Holiday Face‑Off.
Practical Tips for Attending
- Arrive early – gates open at 5:30 PM; the first fan‑zone activities start at 6:00 PM.
- Parking – Free lot A (closest to the arena) fills quickly; consider public transit via the Eau Claire Metro.
- Dress code – Warm layers recommended; indoor temperature set to 68 °F, but drafty sections near the entry may feel cooler.
- Mobile app – Download the “Kwik Trip Holiday Face‑Off” app for real‑time updates, seat upgrades, and instant raffle entries.
Real‑World Example: 2024 Holiday Face‑Off Highlights
- Record attendance – 8,200 fans, a 12 % increase from 2023.
- Top scorer – Marcus “Maverick” Owens (Midwest Warriors) dropped 38 points in the championship game, earning the “Holiday MVP” award.
- Fan engagement – Over 4,000 “Holiday Fuel” cards were redeemed during the event, driving a 7 % rise in Q4 sales for Kwik Trip stores in Wisconsin.
Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the event family‑friendly?
A: Yes. All content is rated PG, and the venue offers a dedicated kids’ zone with basketball‑themed crafts.
Q: Can I watch the games online?
A: The full quick Six schedule streams live on ESPN+, with a free 48‑hour replay window on KwikTripLive.com.
Q: Are there any COVID‑19 restrictions?
A: As of December 2025, the venue follows state guidelines: proof of vaccination or a negative rapid test is required for entry.
Q: When will the official game schedule be released?
A: The detailed bracket and kickoff times will be published on the Kwik trip website on December 1, 2025.
Prepared by Luis Mendoza, Content Specialist, Archyde.com – 2025‑12‑24 21:49:51
