By Phillip Lemen, MavRadio.FM hockey Play-by-Play announcer
(OMAHA, Neb.)- October 6, 2017. That was my first time on call for MavRadio.FM. Omaha hockey was hosting the Nipissing Lakers, a school in Ontario, for an exhibition at Baxter Arena. I was excited and nervous at the same time. Owen Godberson was with me, and he kindly assisted on color in the majority of my broadcasts. Two-and-a-half-years later, my final call March 7, 2020. It was a great experience being the lead voice for that long. I had a lot of time to see the program have its ups and downs.
Play-by-Play announcer Phil Lemen behind the mic at Baxter Arena.
The 2017-18 season had a good run with a 17-17-2 record, but were defeated by North Dakota in the NCHC playoffs. The seniors were: Joel Messner, Tyler Vesel, David Pope, Jake Randolph, Luke Nogard and Grant Gallo. All but Gallo went on to play at the next level. It was also Mike Gabinet’s first year as head coach for the program; taking over from Dean Blais, who led the team to the 2015 Frozen Four.
UNO vs. Airforce, October 2015
In 2018-19, the team had a whopping nine seniors on the squad. Most notably, goaltender Evan Weninger, who was a starter for most of his career. Despite a lot of talent, the team underperformed and ended up with a disappointing record of 9-24-3; the second worst record in program history, behind 2003-04’s record of 8-26-5. At the end of the season, two goalies were gone, and one had transferred, so there was much recruiting to be done in many areas.
Finally, this past 2019-20 season was a nice bounce back in the right direction. Mike Gabinet brought in 12 freshmen, which included three new goalies. Unfortunately, because of COVID-19, the team could not complete NCHC playoffs against Denver. However, I believe we will see big things in the next few years! These younger guys have a lot of talent, and I am confident we will see even more chemistry come the 2020-21 season. Unfortunately, my final call was a loss against North Dakota. But, Omaha did defeat them the night before. Beating the 1st place team in the country twice in a season is a huge accomplishment.
Behind the 2015 Durango mascot, Phil Lemen rallies Omaha hockey fans.
Finally, I’m grateful for all that MavRadio.FM has given me with this experience and being part of the media. Especially allowing me to co-host one of the Maverick Digital Network programs; and being on audio for the other three productions. It has been a blast being able to work with hockey at a close level. From playing from age four to 17, to being hockey’s mascot at Baxter Arena my freshman year, and to having a voice for that long on a great student station. I’m confident that whoever takes my spot is going to do a great job. Cheers to graduation in May, and Go Mavs!
