A Championship Leader Takes the Stage
A CHAMPIONSHIP LEADER
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Michigan is honored to welcome Pat Ferschweiler, Head Coach of Western Michigan University’s hockey program, as the keynote speaker for this year’s Benefit Dinner on June 1st at the Radisson Plaza Hotel.
Since being named head coach in 2021, Ferschweiler has transformed WMU Hockey into a national powerhouse. In just four seasons, he has led the Broncos to over 100 wins, developed 12 All-Conference players, coached 11 NCHC award winners, and mentored two national goal leaders and a Hobey Baker Finalist.
His impact extends beyond the ice. Under his leadership, WMU student-athletes have earned 99 NCHC Academic All-Conference honors, 62 Distinguished Scholar Athlete recognitions, and 11 national All-American Scholar honors- proving that championship performance and academic excellence are built together.
A HISTORIC SEASON
The 2024–2025 season marked a historic milestone for the program. The Broncos took home their first-ever Penrose Cup, NCHC Frozen Faceoff Championship, and NCAA Division I National Championship. The team’s program-best 34 wins earned Ferschweiler the Spencer Penrose Award as NCAA Division I Coach of the Year, along with Coach of the Year honors from College Hockey News, USCHO, and the NCHC.
Why This Night Matters
Benefit Dinner is more than an event- it’s a celebration of the potential of youth in our community.
Just as Coach Ferschweiler invests in his players, our organization invests in young people across Southwest Michigan. We help ignite confidence, open doors to opportunity, and build relationships that transform lives.
Coach Ferschweiler’s message of leadership, resilience, and commitment to excellence will inspire everyone in the room- from longtime supporters to new friends joining our mission.
Sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to:
- Align your business with a nationally recognized leader
- Gain visibility among community and corporate partners
- Demonstrate your commitment to investing in local youth
- Make a direct, measurable impact in the lives of young people
Secure your seat to:
- Hear firsthand from a national championship coach
- Celebrate the impact happening right here in our community
- Network with leaders, partners, and changemakers
- Be part of a night that fuels opportunity for the year ahead
Championship programs are built with vision and support, just like strong communities. We hope you will join us for an evening that celebrates leadership, honors impact, and inspires what’s possible when we invest in the next generation.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now and can be found here.
