Midwest Minor Division Final Recap: Columbus Heat Sweep Dirty Dawgs, Make History

by Anthony Flynn

The Columbus Heat are headed to the 2025–26 PIHA Finals after completing a 2–0 series sweep of the Motor City Dirty Dawgs in the Midwest Division Minor Championship.

With two composed, playoff-caliber wins, Columbus not only claimed the series—but also etched their name into the record books as the first-ever champions of the newly formed Midwest Division and the first team to qualify for the 2025–26 PIHA Finals.

🔴 Game 1: Heat Set the Standard

Columbus Heat 5, Motor City Dirty Dawgs 2
(Game Sheet: xY47uZ)

Columbus wasted little time asserting control in the opening game of the series. Strong puck movement and sustained offensive pressure allowed the Heat to build an early lead, forcing Motor City to chase the game.

The Dirty Dawgs showed resilience and pushed back with a pair of goals, but Columbus answered each surge with timely finishes and steady defensive play. The 5–2 victory gave the Heat immediate momentum and put Motor City in a must-win situation.

🔥 Game 2: Heat Close It Out

Columbus Heat 3, Motor City Dirty Dawgs 1
(Game Sheet: 7FFJNj)

Game 2 was tighter and more physical, with both teams fully aware of the stakes.

Motor City elevated their defensive structure and limited Columbus’ transition chances, but the Heat remained patient. Capitalizing on key moments, Columbus found the net three times while locking things down defensively to secure a 3–1 win and complete the sweep.

As the final minutes ticked away, Columbus’ disciplined positioning and composure ensured there would be no late comeback attempt.

🔁 Series Overview

  • Series Result: Columbus Heat win 2–0

  • Game Scores:

    • Game 1: Heat 5, Dirty Dawgs 2

    • Game 2: Heat 3, Dirty Dawgs 1

  • Defining Factors: Offensive efficiency, defensive structure, and situational awareness

Motor City Dirty Dawgs proved to be a worthy opponent, competing hard throughout the series, but Columbus consistently executed when it mattered most.

🏆 A Historic Milestone

With the series victory, the Columbus Heat achieve two major milestones:

  • ✅ First champions of the Midwest Division

  • ✅ First team to qualify for the 2025–26 PIHA Finals

As the rest of the league’s playoff picture continues to unfold, Columbus now earns the luxury of preparation and rest—entering the Finals with confidence, momentum, and a place in PIHA history already secured.