🦇 Bat Colony: Week of October 6–14
We’re bringing back our Bat Colony segment — your go-to spot for weekly updates on the Austin Ice Bats, player highlights, and everything happening within the organization.
A Strong October Stretch
The Ice Bats have been battling hard through the first several weeks of the season, and early October proved to be another exciting stretch filled with strong performances, player call-ups, and continued community involvement.
Over the weekend of October 4–6, the Ice Bats hosted the El Paso Rhinos at home and secured a dom
inant three-game sweep. The team’s chemistry and determination were on full display, and their efforts did not go unnoticed. Following the sweep, Captain Guhnar Hillman earned South Division Star of the Week honors after scoring the overtime game-winner in the final matchup of the series.
Shortly after, the Ice Bats ranked #4 in the league in the Tuesday Ten rankings — a clear reflection of the team’s consistency and hard work throughout the early part of the season.
Home Series Against the Texas Brahmas
The following weekend, October 10–11, the Bats faced off against the Texas Brahmas in a two-game home series. Game 1 ended with a tough 5–1 loss, but the Bats showed resilience and fight in Game 2. Despite a hard-fought effort, they narrowly fell 7–5 in an action-packed game that highlighted their growth and grit.
That same weekend brought exciting news for two key players. Assistant Captain and Defenseman Dylan Jimenez was called up to play for the Rochester Jr. Americans (NAHL) and made his debut on Saturday. The next day, Sunday, Captain and Forward Guhnar Hillman was also called up to the Minnesota Mallards (NAHL). Their success shows the development and opportunity within the Ice Bats organization.
As of today, Tuesday, October 14, the Bats remain in the Top 10, holding the #10 spot in the league heading into another important weekend of hockey.
Looking Ahead to El Paso
This upcoming weekend, October 17–19, the Bats hit the road to face the El Paso Rhinos once again for a three-game series, looking to repeat their earlier sweep.
Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Off the ice, the Ice Bats continue to proudly support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. During our October home weekends, we hosted ceremonial puck drops honoring two incredible women who embody strength, community, and resilience.
Bonny Morris, a breast cancer survivor, has been a cornerstone of the Ice Bats family. She’s the proud mom of current player Garrett Morris and last season’s goaltender Gavin Morris, and she continues to give back in countless ways. Bonny has hosted team gatherings, volunteered at events, and this season has even opened her home as a billet for player Cayden Reamer. Her dedication and heart represent what the Ice Bats community is all about.
We also recognized Didi Maloney, a true fighter in her ongoing battle with breast cancer. Didi continues to inspire those around her — not only through her strength but through her commitment to supporting youth in our area as a science teacher at Glenn High School. She shows up, gives back through teaching the youth, and represents the perseverance that defines our community.
We are beyond thankful to have both of these astounding women as part of the Bat family and are cheering Didi on through her fight.
Fans can continue to join the cause by purchasing our exclusive pink merchandise, with 15% of proceeds donated to breast cancer research throughout October.
Check out our Merch HERE
Wrapping Up
Halfway through the month, the Ice Bats continue to make an impact — both in the standings and in the community. Stay tuned to The Bat Colony every week for more updates on your Austin Ice Bats!