Fuji Suzuki’s Hat Trick Lifts North Iowa Bulls Over Bismarck Bobcats

MASON CITY, Iowa — The North Iowa Bulls defeated the Bismarck Bobcats 6-4 on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Mason City Arena, fueled by a record-breaking performance from forward Fuji Suzuki. Suzuki scored three goals, securing a hat trick and surpassing the team’s previous record for most goals scored in a North American Hockey League (NAHL) season.

First Period Dominance

Suzuki opened the scoring with two goals in the first period, giving the Bulls an early lead. Denis Hodas added another goal, extending the Bulls’ advantage to 3-0. The Bobcats managed to close the gap before the end of the period with a goal from Dennis Lominac, making the score 3-1.

Bulls Extend Lead in Second Period

Suzuki continued his impressive form in the second period, scoring a power-play goal. Denis Kuzmenkov then capitalized on a pass from Suzuki, increasing the Bulls’ lead to 5-2.

Bobcats Rally, But Bulls Hold On

The Bobcats mounted a comeback in the third period, with goals from Cam Alemond and George Porier narrowing the score to 5-4. However, the Bulls sealed the victory when Denis Hodas assisted Vitaliy Korolyuk for the final goal of the game.

Milestones Reached

In addition to Suzuki’s record-breaking performance, the game marked the 100th NAHL game for both Denis Hodas and Brody Dietz. Dietz, a defenseman from Hudson, Wisconsin, also tied the Bulls’ single-season assists record and set a novel record for assists by a defenseman.

Durkin Shines in Net

Goalkeeper Charlie Durkin played a key role in the Bulls’ victory, making 22 saves and earning his seventh win in 12 appearances this season.

Next Up for the Bulls

The North Iowa Bulls will next face the Minnesota Mallards in Forest Lake on Tuesday.