Lansing Sun

The 1965-66 Michigan State University hockey team, led by Head Coach Amo Bessone, concluded their season with an overall record of 16 wins and 13 losses. In the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA), they finished in sixth place with a conference record of 9 wins and 11 losses.

This season was highlighted by their victory in the NCAA Championship. The team's journey to this triumph included notable games such as their NCAA Tournament victories against Boston University, which they won 2-1, and Clarkson, where they secured a decisive 6-1 win. These games were part of the tournament held in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Throughout the season, Michigan State faced various opponents. They experienced early setbacks with losses against Colorado College and St. Lawrence but managed to turn things around with victories over North Dakota and Denver. A series of competitive matches against teams like Minnesota-Duluth and Michigan Tech also marked their path.

The team roster featured players across three rows: Gaye Cooley, Matt Mulcahy, Co-Captain Don Heaphy, Gerald Fisher, Co-Captain Mike Coppo, Tom Purdo, Larry Roche in the front row; Trainer Clyde Stretch along with Sandy McAndrew, Tom Mikkola, Mike Jacobson among others in the middle row; and Manager William Smith along with Richard Bois and other key players in the back row.

Michigan State's campaign saw them overcome challenges throughout the regular season and playoffs before ultimately securing their place as NCAA Champions under Coach Bessone's leadership.