Top Ranked Midland Blankets Jamestown at Sidner Ice Arena

Midland University extended its dominant season with a 2 to 0 victory over the University of Jamestown Jimmies at Sidner Ice Arena on November 7. The outcome marked the fifth time this season Midland defeated Jamestown, and reinforced Midland’s standing atop ACHA Division 1 Women’s Hockey. Midland improved to 18 1 0 1 on the season while Jamestown fell to 4 7 0 0.

Both Midland goals came in the second period. Darbi Poole scored at 12 13, and Jordan Bell added a shorthanded goal with 41 seconds remaining in the period. Jamestown was heavily outshot 39 to 10, with goalie Lilah Drew making 37 saves to keep the game scoreless late into the matchup. The Jimmies were scheduled to play at Midland again on Saturday November 8.

For local residents and families in Stutsman County the game carries more than a scoreboard meaning. Women's collegiate sports are a visible pathway for local girls and young women to pursue higher education while competing at a high level. Seeing a local college program face a top ranked opponent can inspire young athletes, but the lopsided shot totals and repeated losses to the same opponent also point to structural gaps that affect competitive balance and player welfare.

Public health and safety are central concerns when small programs face resource constraints. High shot totals and sustained pressure can increase the risk of fatigue and injury. Access to athletic trainers and timely sports medicine care matters for recovery and for avoiding long term consequences from injuries including concussion. In rural areas like Stutsman County travel demands for away games and limited local clinic hours can complicate follow up care for student athletes. Ensuring consistent medical coverage at practices and games, expanding telehealth options for sports medicine consultations, and coordinating with county health providers could strengthen protections for athletes.

There are also broader equity issues at play. Investment in facilities, coaching staff, and medical support influences competitive outcomes, academic retention, and mental health for student athletes. Strengthening partnerships between the university, local health systems, and county leaders can help address disparities and keep athletics a force for community cohesion. For parents and supporters, the immediate takeaway is pride in the persistence of the Jimmies and concern for the systems that support them. For policymakers and university administrators, the game is a reminder that athletic success and student wellbeing depend on resources, access to care, and intentional support for women athletes in rural communities.