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Robert Morris adds former Boston College defenseman Clougherty to women’s hockey coaching staff

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Keri Clougherty was a stalwart defender over her four seasons at BC (photo: Meg Kelly).

The RMU women’s hockey team has announced the hiring of Keri Clougherty as an assistant coach ahead of the 2025-26 season.

A former Boston College defenseman and a leader both on and off the ice, Clougherty brings a wealth of experience, passion, and character “that align seamlessly with the values and vision of RMU women’s hockey,” according to a news release.

“Keri is going to be an incredible addition to our program,” said RMU head coach Logan Bittle in a statement. “She’s someone who has lived everything we preach here — being a great teammate, working with purpose, serving others, and constantly chasing improvement. Along with working with our ‘D’ core, she’ll add a fresh perspective to our skill development, film breakdown, and something she’s extremely passionate about—leadership development. We’re going to hit the ground running this summer.

“Keri fits our culture perfectly. We’re not just excited to add a coach with a strong resume — we’re excited to add the kind of person who helps raise the standard every single day.”

Clougherty joins RMU after completing her collegiate career at Boston College, where she played four seasons as a defenseman. Beyond her contributions on the ice, she distinguished herself as a campus leader. She served as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), was named an ACC Top Six for Service honoree, and became a top-five finalist for the 2025 NCAA Hockey Humanitarian Award, recognizing her for significant contributions to both her team and community.

She was also awarded the prestigious Welles Crowther “#19” Patch, presented annually to the BC student-athlete who best exemplifies the motto “men and women for others.”

Her community impact includes work with Newton Athletes Unlimited, Morgan’s Message, and multiple youth hockey coaching initiatives through Paul Vincent Hockey, Pioneer Valley Hockey Camp, and her own summer training program, Clougherty Hockey. These efforts underscore her dedication to mentorship, development, and using the sport to uplift others.

Clougherty will play a key role in working with the Colonials’ defensive core while leading initiatives in skill development, video review, and the program’s growing emphasis on leadership training.

“I’m so excited to join the RMU staff and team,” said Clougherty. “I’m so grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to work alongside Logan, Liam, the entire staff and players. To join a group with such great team culture and standards is exciting and I’m honored to now be a part of it.

“I’m eager to get on the ice and begin the journey ahead.”

NCAA Division I hockey players continue to thrive in classroom as both women, men top national average in APR

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Penn State graduating seniors Dylan Lugris, Danny Dzhaniyev, Carson Dyck and Simon Mack (photo: PSU Athletics).

NCAA Division I hockey student-athletes once again performed above the national average academically, according to the annual Academic Progress Rate (APR) data released this month by the NCAA.

The women’s hockey four-year average score from 2020-21 through 2023-24 was 993, while men’s hockey scored 986, placing both among the top six among all women’s and men’s sports, respectively. Additionally, men’s hockey’s most recent single-year APR score of 985 for 2023-24 ranked sixth among men’s sports with 50 or more teams.

The APR, created in 2003 to measure Division I schools and teams on their student-athletes’ success in the classroom, awards points to teams based on students’ grades, their progress toward their degree and for staying in school.

One-quarter of the women’s hockey programs (10 of 39) included in the study – Boston College, Boston University, Brown, Colgate, Providence, Robert Morris, Sacred Heart, Minnesota, Minnesota Duluth and Vermont – logged perfect multi-year average APR scores of 1,000. A whopping 90 percent of all women’s hockey teams (35 of 39) included in the study had multi-year scores above the national Division I average of 984.

Ten men’s teams – Augustana, Bowling Green, Canisius, Penn State, Providence, Robert Morris, RIT, St. Lawrence, UMass Lowell and New Hampshire – had perfect multi-year average APR scores of 1,000. Nearly 60 percent of all men’s programs (37 of 64) included in the study had multi-year APR scores above the national average.

The calculation of APR also rewards teams when former student-athletes return to school to complete their degree. In recent years, National Hockey League players like Nic Dowd (St. Cloud State), Jordan Harris (Northeastern), Jack Johnson (Michigan), Ryan McDonagh (Wisconsin) and Drew O’Connor (Dartmouth) have completed their undergraduate degrees after having left school early to play professionally.

The APR is related – but not identical – to the NCAA’s Graduation Success Rate (GSR), serving in a way as a predictor of GSR success. Women’s hockey had a 97% graduation rate in the most recent study, while men’s hockey’s boasted a 93% graduation rate, placing both among the top five of women’s and men’s sports, respectively.

— Courtesy College Hockey Inc.

Former Post goalie, men’s hockey assistant coach Brown tabbed interim head coach for Eagles women’s hockey team

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BROWN

With the departure of head coach Pat Bingham following the program’s first-ever NEWHA semifinals appearance in February, a familiar face is taking over the reins of the Post women’s hockey program as alumni and current men’s hockey assistant coach and women’s hockey goaltender coach Brandon Brown has been announced as the program’s interim head coach for the 2025-26 season.

Brown spent five years with Post as a player from 2017 to 2022, etching his name in the record books as the program’s all-time leader in games played with 89 and games started with 84. Additionally, he holds the records for most career saves with 3,067, wins with 17, and was a NE10 second team all-conference recipient during the 2019-20 season, as well as named to the NE10 all-championship team during the 2021-22 campaign.

The 2021-22 season was also the first and only time the Eagles made it to the NE10 championship game, where they fell 4-3 to Assumption. In that season, Brown recorded 10 wins in net, which is tied for the most in a single season alongside Benjamin Cunneen, who had 10 wins during the 2024-25 season for Post.

Following his athletic career, Brown was signed to a professional contract with the FPHL’s Carolina Thunderbirds, where he dressed for 10 games at the end of the 2021-22 season. After graduating with his bachelor of science in sports management and master of business administration, Brown was named the men’s hockey assistant coach in head coach Tim Richter’s first season as head coach. During the same length of time, Brown worked as the women’s hockey goaltender coach under both Gretchen Silverman and Pat Bingham, before he was appointed interim head coach late last month.

‘Perfect fit’ Strand leaves Wisconsin-Eau Claire after 10 seasons, named new assistant coach for Vermont women’s hockey team

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Erik Strand spent 10 seasons at Wisconsin-Eau Claire (photo: Zach Jacobson/UWEC Photography).

Vermont has announced that Erik Strand has joined the women’s hockey staff as an assistant coach.

Strand joins the Catamounts after 10 seasons as head coach at Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

“We are very excited to welcome Erik Strand and his family to Vermont,” said UVM head coach Jim Plumer in a statement. “Throughout the time I have gotten to know Erik, I have been extremely impressed by his hockey knowledge, his passion for the game of hockey, and the art of coaching.”

Strand brings 20 years of NCAA coaching experience and a proven track record of competitive excellence and athlete development to Vermont. Since taking the reins of UWEC in 2015, Strand led the Blugolds to sustained success, including a WIAC regular-season title in 2020, back-to-back O’Brien Cup championships in 2018 and 2019, and four NCAA tournament appearances. Under his leadership, UWEC became a perennial presence in the national rankings and established a strong reputation in Division III hockey.

He departs UWEC with a career record of 183-68-17.

“He’s a true student of the game and his coaching acumen has shown at Eau Claire, where he has built a consistent national contender over his 10 years there,” said Plumer. “He’s going to be a perfect fit for our staff and our players.”

A four-time WIAC coach of the year, Strand’s tenure at UWEC was highlighted by player success, with six All-Americans, three WIAC players of the year, and numerous academic honors among his coaching accolades. Several of his former players have gone on to compete professionally or pursue careers in coaching.

Before taking over the women’s program, Strand served as an assistant coach with the UWEC men’s team, helping the Blugolds to conference titles and the 2013 NCAA Division III national championship. He played a pivotal role in developing a nationally recognized defensive unit that set multiple NCAA statistical records.

Strand played junior hockey with the USHL’s Des Moines Buccaneers, winning both the Anderson Cup and a national championship.

He later appeared in over 100 games for UWEC as a defenseman.

Off the ice, he has also worked in the financial services industry and is deeply committed to fostering leadership and growth in student-athletes.

Stonehill announces record $15 million gift for athletics to support construction of Tom & Kathleen Bogan Arena

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The rendering of the new Bogan Arena at Stonehill (rendering: Stonehill Athletics).

Stonehill has announced a landmark $15 million gift from Tom and Kathleen Bogan, kickstarting a fundraising campaign to support the construction of a new ice hockey and basketball arena.

In recognition of their philanthropy, the facility will be named the Tom & Kathleen Bogan Arena.

“This generous gift — the largest in the college’s history — will transform Stonehill by enabling us to expand our campus, foster community spirit and support our Division I athletic teams with state-of-the-art training and competition spaces. Over the years, Tom has been a thoughtful and loyal alumnus. He and Kathleen continually demonstrate their philanthropic spirit through the many ways they support Stonehill’s mission, as well as its bright future,” said Rev. John Denning, C.S.C., president of Stonehill College, in a statement.

Longtime donors, the Bogans, who established the Tom ’72 and Kathleen Bogan Endowed Scholarship in 2023, have previously supported the Stonehill College Fund, Stonehill athletics, and the Leo J. Meehan School of Business. In 2021, Thomas and Kathleen Bogan Hall, which primarily houses Stonehill seniors, was named in the couple’s honor. In 2019, Tom, who also serves as a Stonehill trustee, received the college’s Outstanding Alumnus Award, which recognized his many contributions to the software industry and to Stonehill.

“The arena will provide the college with the necessary resources to enhance the student experience and deepen Stonehill’s relationship with neighboring communities that will have access to the facility. Supporting Stonehill’s mission of educating hearts and minds via this new addition to the campus landscape is truly exciting,” said Tom and Kathleen Bogan in a joint statement.

Tom has been an executive and investor in the software industry for most of his career. An accounting major at Stonehill, he was CEO, executive and board of directors member at many high-growth software companies, including Citrix Systems, Rational Software, Apptio, AspenTech, Avatar Technologies, PTC and Rally Software. Most recently, he was CEO at Adaptive Insights, which was acquired by Workday in 2018. He then served as vice chairman at Workday until January 2022. He is currently on the board of directors of public companies Workday (WDAY), CS Disco (LAW) and Catapult Sports (CAT.AU), as well as private companies Reltio and Extensiv.

The rendering of the exterior of Bogan Arena (rendering: Stonehill Athletics).

A pillar of Stonehill’s forthcoming strategic plan for 2026-2030, the Tom & Kathleen Bogan Arena is part of an overall goal to upgrade and enhance the college’s athletic facilities. The building will be constructed on Washington Street, extending the west side of campus.

“We are so thankful to the Bogans for their inspirational leadership. The Tom & Kathleen Bogan Arena will help shine a new spotlight on Stonehill for the thousands of visitors who will experience an NCAA Division I contest in person, as well as the millions of viewers who will watch live broadcasts from the venue. This gift will serve our student-athletes and the Stonehill community in many meaningful ways, and we are excited to maximize the opportunities presented by the new athletic facility,” said director of athletics Dean O’Keefe.

The planned 120,000-square-foot facility will house separate basketball and ice hockey arenas, with a seating capacity of approximately 2,500 for each venue in addition to premium hospitality and viewing areas. Spaces designed to support the academic success of student-athletes will be incorporated throughout the building to complement state-of-the-art team locker rooms, film viewing rooms and training facilities. With an estimated total cost of $65 million, the facility will be made possible by the generous support of donors and college investment.

“We are all truly grateful to Tom and Kathleen for making this arena part of their Stonehill legacy. This significant investment by them will not only have a pivotal impact on the College’s athletic programs, but it will also elevate the entire campus community,” said Doug Smith, vice president for advancement.

Women’s Division I College Hockey: The PodKaz Offseason interview – Building a new program with Delaware coach Allison Coomey

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What does it take to start a new NCAA Division I women’s hockey program from scratch? Coach Allison Coomey is getting that experience at Delaware, which will field a varsity team for the first time in 2025-26.

Coomey joined an offseason episode of the PodKaz with Nicole Haase and Todd Milewski of USCHO.com to discuss how she has built a staff, assembled a roster and crafted a schedule for the inaugural season.

The PodKaz is a production of USCHO.com. Have a question for us? Reach out to Nicole (@NicoleHaase) or Todd (@ToddMilewski) on social media or email [email protected].

Find The PodKaz on:
Spotify
Spreaker
iHeart
Amazon
Apple

St. Catherine women’s hockey team elevates Chilstrom from assistant coach to head coach of Wildcats

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Kayla Chilstrom will be St. Catherine’s first head coach in 20 seasons (photo: St. Catherine Athletics).

St. Catherine has announced the hiring of Kayla Chilstrom as the Wildcats’ new head hockey coach.

Chilstrom, the program’s assistant for the past three seasons, is the fourth coach headed into the program’s 29th season.

“I want to personally thank (athletic director) Eric Stacey and the athletic department for believing in me to lead this program”, said Chilstrom in a statement. “I’m truly honored to step into the role of head coach at a university that means so much to me. This is an incredible opportunity to lead a talented and dedicated group of student-athletes. I’ve seen firsthand the passion, drive, and potential within this team, and I’m excited to help them grow both on the ice and in the classroom. St. Kate’s is a place filled with support, encouragement, and a strong sense of community and I’m proud to continue being a part of it as we move this program forward together.”

Chilstrom takes over for Brad Marshall, who stepped down after 20 seasons behind the bench.

Aside from serving as the program’s assistant coach, Chilstrom simultaneously manages operations and program development for Play Hockey, one of North America’s premier youth hockey organizations. Her coaching journey includes previous NCAA stops at St. Olaf and her alma mater, Wisconsin-Superior, where she guided team practices, implemented scouting reports, and recruited student-athletes who matched each program’s culture. She also served as a head girls’ varsity coach at Superior High School, where she helped rebuild a program to be recognized for its work ethic, skill development, and community presence.

“Throughout the search process, it became evident that Coach Chilstrom was 100% dedicated to our hockey program and St. Kate’s,” said Stacey. “The vision she presented for the team aligned perfectly with that of the department, and I am thrilled to have her take on this increased role.”

As a longtime coach with the Minnesota Ice Cougars, she oversaw team development for ages U8 to U16, while offering private skills instruction and coaching at elite summer camps across Minnesota. She serves as a U14 head coach at the CCM High Performance Camp, where she mentors rising stars and helps prepare them to play at the collegiate level.

A graduate of Wisconsin-Superior with a bachelor of science degree in coaching communication, she also holds a USA Hockey level 4 certification.

Brown assistant coach Simpson hired as new head coach for Norwich women’s hockey team

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Justin Simpson spent the last couple seasons as an assistant at Brown (photo: Brown Athletics).

Norwich has announced the hiring of Justin Simpson as the third head coach in the history of the women’s hockey team.

Simpson comes to Northfield after spending the last four seasons behind the bench at Brown, the first three as an assistant coach and the most recent campaign as the associate head coach. Under his tutelage, the Bears improved each season. During the 2024-25 season, Brown got off to their best start in 30 years, where they were nationally ranked for three consecutive weeks. He recruited Jade Iginla, daughter of Hockey Hall of Famer Jarome Iginla, to Providence, where she earned ECAC Hockey co-rookie of the year, headlining a list of nine players earning all-conference honors in his tenure.

“I am grateful to the president of Norwich, LtGen Broadmeadow, vice president of student affairs and commandant BG McCollough [VSM], director of athletics Ed Hockenbury, and all members of the hiring committee for the opportunity to lead this historic and storied program,” said Simpson in a statement. “Norwich University is an incredible institution with a mission and guiding values that prepare graduates for success in their careers and life. I am proud that I will get to introduce the university and Northfield to prospective student-athletes and their families. I look forward to meeting and connecting with our passionate alumnae base. Most of all, I can’t wait to meet the team, connect with each individual player, and enjoy this journey together.”

Prior to Brown, Simpson spent a year as an assistant at Rochester Institute of Technology, which followed two seasons as an assistant at Colby. Simpson started his coaching career as the director of hockey operations for Providence, along with serving as a video coach for Hockey Canada. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ont., and a master of business administration from Providence.

“I am very excited to have Justin join Norwich University as our next head women’s ice hockey coach,” said Hockenbury. “We had a strong pool of applicants for the position, and Justin rose to the top with a combination of collegiate coaching experience, hockey knowledge, a strong recruiting network, and most importantly, values that align with ours here at Norwich. Justin comes to us with glowing recommendations from the hockey community and impressed all of us throughout the interview process with his professionalism, personality, and impeccable preparation. I am confident he will build on the foundation of excellence that Sophie Leclerc Doherty maintained within the program, both on and off the ice, and I look forward to a bright future for our team under his guidance. I am so pleased to welcome Justin and his wife Jessica to the Norwich Athletics family.”

Simpson takes over a Cadets program that is set to compete in the inaugural season of Little East Conference competition, after a berth in the NEHC championship game.

“Sophie Leclerc Doherty and prior to her, Mark Bolding, have built a very special program. A program that strives for excellence in the classroom, community, and on the ice,” said Simpson. “I am excited to build upon the foundation already in place and continue the success Norwich women’s hockey has had at the national level.”

Norwich women’s hockey assistant Willard steps down, takes same role at Delaware

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Taylor Willard spent the past four seasons at Norwich (photo: Jasmine Olson).

Norwich women’s hockey assistant coach Taylor Willard has stepped down from her post and accepted a position as an assistant at Delaware.

Willard completed her fourth season at Norwich this past season. In each of her four seasons, she oversaw a defense that finished in the top 15 in Division III in goals-against average, never allowing more than 1.6 goals per game in a season. Additionally, Willard managed an elite penalty-killing unit the last two seasons, with a success rate of 95.3% in 2023-24 (a program record), and 92.9% in 2024-25 (second in program history).

“It has been an absolute honor to be part of the Norwich family over the past four years,” Willard said in a statement. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with such committed student-athletes and to grow both personally and professionally within this exceptional program. The impact that Norwich, the players, and Sophie have had on me has been profound, and I wouldn’t be the coach or person I am today without them. Leaving was far from an easy decision, but I’m excited for the next chapter in my coaching career.”

A native of Naperville, Ill., Willard patrolled the blue line at Vermont, logging 145 games over her collegiate career, totaling 62 points, the most by a defenseman in program history. After a year with the Montreal Canadiennes of the Canadian Women’s Hockey League, she returned to UVM as a volunteer assistant for two seasons before coming to Norwich.

A nationwide search for a new assistant coach is currently underway.

Former Utica assistant Ardoin named first head coach for Roger Williams women’s hockey team

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ARDOIN

Roger Williams has announced the appointment of Lora Ardoin as the inaugural head coach for the RWU women’s hockey team, which officially starts with the 2026-27 season.

Ardoin joins Roger Williams after serving as an assistant coach for the Utica women’s hockey team during the 2024-25 season. At Utica, she instructed players on ice skills and in-game systems, coordinated video breakdowns, assisted in key recruiting efforts, and oversaw team travel logistics.

“We are excited to have Lora join us as the women’s ice hockey head coach at Roger Williams University,” said Kiki Jacobs, director of athletics, intramurals, and recreation, in a statement. “Her energy and enthusiasm were unmatched. She came in with a detailed plan on how she wants to build her program and create a winning culture.”

“I am honored to be named head coach of the women’s ice hockey program at Roger Williams University,” added Ardoin. “I would like to thank vice president John King, Kiki Jacobs, and the entire hiring committee for putting their faith in me and giving me the opportunity to become a Hawk. This is going to be a fun process of tapping into the atmosphere on campus, the renowned academic standing, and support that has already been shown to myself and the conversation surrounding hockey at RWU. I look forward to bringing in future Hawks to build a competitive program and can’t wait to get to work.”

Prior to her time at Utica, Ardoin held assistant coaching positions at Union during the 2023-24 season and at Stevenson from 2021 to 2023. In these positions, she played pivotal roles in practice planning, video analysis, recruiting, and player support.

Ardoin began her coaching career as a graduate assistant at Elmira from 2019 to 2021, after beginning her career in athletics with the SPHL’s Knoxville Ice Bears, where she served as an account executive, developing corporate partnerships and organizing community outreach programs.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in sports management from Canton (2017) and a master’s degree in management from Elmira (2021).

As a former NCAA student-athlete at Canton, Ardoin competed in both women’s hockey and lacrosse from 2013 to 2017. She captained the women’s hockey team during the early seasons of the program’s existence, while serving as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). Her leadership extended beyond athletics through her involvement with Special Olympics Area 26 as a lead student coordinator.

King’s tabs former Cortland assistant La Rock as new coach for Monarchs women’s hockey team

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LA ROCK

King’s has named Quinn La Rock as the next coach of the women’s hockey team.

“We are thrilled to welcome Quinn La Rock to King’s,” said assistant athletic director Andy Orlowski. “He brings with him a record of success and a dynamic vision for the future of our women’s ice hockey program founded on building a championship team culture alongside our student-athletes.”

La Rock spent the last two seasons as the lead assistant coach for the women’s hockey team at Cortland, helping the program in all areas including recruiting, practice and game preparations, film evaluation, team culture, line up, and bench management, player development, and fundraising. La Rock was primarily tasked with the defensive zone, coaching four all-conference selections, one all-rookie honoree, and two defensive players of the year in the SUNYAC, marking the first- and second-ever defensive player of the year winners in program history.

In total with the women’s program at Cortland, La Rock helped lead the Red Dragons to a 37-11-6 overall record, two playoff bids, a SUNYAC title, and appearance in the NCAA Division III tournament.

“I’m incredibly honored and grateful to be named the next head coach of the women’s ice hockey team at King’s College,” said La Rock. “I want to sincerely thank athletic directors Cheryl Ish and Andy Orlowski, vice president of student affairs Dr. McShea, and the entire athletic staff for this opportunity. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was struck by the strong sense of community, support, and collective drive for excellence – all foundational qualities of a successful athletic culture. I’m excited to lead this talented and driven group of student-athletes, and I’m confident we can build on the program’s proud tradition while reaching new heights in the seasons ahead.”

La Rock also served as head coach for the men’s ACHA team at Cortland, facilitating all aspects of the hockey club both on and off the ice. In his time at the helm of the club program, he led the team to its first-ever win at the national tournament.

La Rock also had stints as a volunteer assistant and operations manager for the Red Dragon’s men’s varsity hockey team from 2021 to 2023, assisted the Cortland/Home Golden Eagles for one season, and spent time as the executive director and operations manager at JM McDonald Sports Complex from 2021 to 2022, creating travel hockey programs for youth ages 8-14, overseeing daily operations, and developing new programs, leagues, and special events.

“He is passionate about player development both on and off the ice,” said Orlowski. “This team will play with confidence, and they will be relentless. He brings a positive mindset and enthusiasm that is contagious. Monarch hockey has an exciting future under Quinn’s leadership.”

La Rock is a 2020 graduate of Cortland with a degree in sport management.

MAC adding Neumann starting with 2026-27 season as conference’s 17th member

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The Middle Atlantic Conference has announced the addition of Neumann as the 17th member of the MAC beginning in the 2026-27 academic year.

Neumann has most recently competed in the UCHC.

“On behalf of the presidents of the member institutions of the Middle Atlantic Conference, it is my honor to welcome Neumann University to the conference,” said MAC executive committee chair and Misericordia president Dan Myers in a statement. “Neumann is well positioned within the MAC footprint and brings a holistic approach to developing student-athletes that fits well with the MAC values. We look forward to competing against the Knights beginning in 2026-27.”

The MAC is a group of diverse colleges and universities dedicated to the NCAA Division III philosophy, emphasizing the importance of athletics in the overall growth and success of students. With a long-standing history, the MAC provides a competitive athletic environment that fosters student-athlete development, academic achievement, and the values of good sportsmanship, preparing them for success in all aspects of life.

Neumann already competes in the MAC as an affiliate member in hockey, one of the university’s established athletic programs. The Knights won the Division III national championship in 2009, and the MAC’s strong commitment to hockey supports the development of Neumann’s men’s and women’s programs, which currently include more than 80 student-athletes across varsity and club levels.

Over the past 15 years, Neumann has upgraded its athletic facilities, with more improvements planned. Most notably, the university has partnered with Ed Snider Youth Hockey & Education to facilitate the construction of the Ed Snider Ice Arena on campus. The building will include two ice rinks, one serving as the home for the university’s hockey teams and another designated as the official home for Snider programming in Chester and Delaware counties. The rinks will have seating for 1,000 and 300 spectators, respectively.

“The MAC includes institutions that share Neumann’s academic values, size, and student-centered approach,” said Dr. Chris Domes, Neumann’s president. “This move ensures our student-athletes continue to compete at a high level while thriving in an environment that mirrors our mission.”

The Knights will bring a slate of nine men’s and 10 women’s NCAA teams to the MAC, including baseball, basketball, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, volleyball and more. In the last year, the Knights have won conference titles in soccer and basketball. More than 350 varsity athletes participate in Neumann’s athletic programs.

“The Middle Atlantic Conference is thrilled to welcome Neumann University,” said MAC executive director Megan Morrison. “Neumann’s commitment to holistic student-athlete development, rooted in their strong institutional values, aligns perfectly with the MAC’s emphasis on academic excellence, sportsmanship, and community engagement. This partnership will enrich our conference and reinforce our commitment to the well-rounded development of student-athletes.”

John Krimmel, director of athletics and recreation at Neumann, is excited about the collaboration.

“At a time when many institutions are scaling back athletics, Neumann is investing in growth,” Krimmel said. “Joining the MAC strengthens our visibility, competitive opportunities, and institutional reputation across a broader geographic region.”

Beloit joining WIAC as affiliate member in men’s, women’s hockey beginning with 2025-26 season

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Beloit College will join the WIAC as an affiliate member in men’s and women’s hockey beginning with the 2025-26 academic year.

Beloit will be in its inaugural seasons for both sports during the 2025-26 season. The Buccaneers will join a conference that includes full-time members UW-Eau Claire, UW-River Falls, UW-Stevens Point and UW-Stout, as well as affiliate member UW-Superior.

“Our conference is pleased to welcome Beloit College,” commented WIAC commissioner Danielle Harris in a statement. “The addition of Beloit College enhances the conference’s mission to provide championship experiences for student-athletes.”

“We are thrilled to join the WIAC for men’s and women’s hockey,” added Beloit athletic director Dave DeGeorge. “The WIAC is an elite conference and we look forward to the opportunity and challenge.”

Beloit extended an invitation to Northland’s men’s and women’s hockey teams to join the Beloit community, following the news that Northland will close at the end of the semester. The Northland coaches accepted the offer.

UConn alum Thompson nets OT winner, Maine product Swayman stops all 25 shots as U.S. downs Switzerland to win first IIHF World Championship in 92 years

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The United States has won its first IIHF World Championship gold medal since 1933 (photo: USA Hockey).

Tage Thompson (Connecticut) scored the overtime game-winning goal to clinch the first gold medal for the U.S. Men’s National Team at the IIHF Men’s World Championship since 1933, defeating Switzerland 1-0 Sunday at Avicii Arena in Stockholm.

“What an absolutely amazing feeling,” said Ryan Warsofsky, head coach of Team USA, in a statement. “Everyone in our group contributed to winning the gold medal. We beat an excellent team in Switzerland tonight and full credit to them for the tournament they had. On behalf of our team, I’d also like to thank all the people who helped put on the world championship. We’ll remember this for a long, long time.”

Team USA finishes the 2025 IIHF Men’s World Championship with a record 7-2-0-1 (W-OTW-OTL-L), capturing its first gold medal at the event in 92 years.

Drew O’Connor (Dartmouth) nearly opened the scoring 5:06 into the first on a point-blank opportunity in the slot generated by a centering feed from Mikey Eyssimont (St. Cloud State), but his shot was denied by Swiss netminder Leonardo Genoni.

U.S. goaltender Jeremy Swayman (Maine) made a series of stellar saves with 9:58 remaining, as he shut the door on a Swiss power play. He finished the game with a 25-save shutout.

Team USA challenged Genoni with a flurry of shots in the dying seconds of the first but was unable to take the lead as the score remained tied through 20 minutes.

Frank Nazar (Michigan) drew a penalty shot at 5:38 of the second. Conor Garland was selected to take the shot, which was denied by Genoni.

Michael McCarron nearly scored the first goal of the game with 2:22 left in the frame as he deflected a shot from Andrew Peeke (Notre Dame) just wide of the Swiss net. Nazar almost scored shorthanded with less than a second remaining, but his chance was turned aside in front of the net.

Team USA captain Clayton Keller (Boston University) tipped a one-timer from Brady Skjei (Minnesota) on goal, but the chance was fought off by Genoni at 5:07 of the third.

Keller nearly broke the scoreless tie with 7:15 remaining in regulation, as he fired a shot from the left faceoff circle that bounced into the crease before being swept away by a defender.

Neither team was able to find the game winner in 60 minutes of play, sending the contest to overtime. Team USA outshot Switzerland 39-24 in regulation.

Thompson scored the overtime game-winning goal 2:02 into the 3-on-3 overtime frame, as he wristed a shot from the top of the right circle past Genoni to clinch the first gold medal for Team USA in over nine decades.

NOTES: Thompson was named U.S. Player of the Game … The U.S. went 0 for 2 on the power play while Switzerland also went 0 for 2 … Team USA outshot Switzerland 40-25 … Zach Werenski (Michigan) earned the directorate award as the best defenseman in the tournament and was named to the media all-star team.

Gardner Morey resigns as Princeton women’s hockey coach, named GM of new PWHL Vancouver franchise

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Cara Gardner Morey spent 14 seasons at Princeton (photo: Princeton Athletics).

Cara Gardner Morey has resigned her position as head coach of Princeton’s women’s hockey team to accept a new role as general manager of PWHL Vancouver, an expansion franchise set to begin play in the 2025-26 season.

Gardner Morey has spent the last 14 seasons as a member of Princeton’s coaching staff, including the last eight as head coach. The second-winningest head coach in program history, Gardner Morey guided the Tigers to the 2020 ECAC Hockey championship. During her time at Princeton, the Tigers qualified for three NCAA tournaments, once while she was an assistant and twice during her tenure as head coach. She also part of two Ivy League championships — in 2016 as an assistant and 2019 as head coach.

“I am grateful for Cara’s 14 years of dedication to Princeton women’s ice hockey as an assistant coach and head coach,” said Princeton director of athletics John Mack in a statement. “She has helped recruit and develop some of the most successful teams in program history, and helped countless young women reach their potential on and off the ice. We are sad to see her go, but excited to watch her take on this new role during an exciting time for the PWHL.”

Gardner Morey will have multiple former Tigers on opposing teams as she takes the reins in Vancouver, including 2024 PWHL No. 1 overall draft pick Sarah Fillier who plays for New York, as well as Claire Thompson (Minnesota), Maggie Connors (Toronto) and Mariah Keopple (Montreal).

“This is a bittersweet moment for me, but an exciting one,” said Gardner Morey. “Princeton has been my home for the last 14 years and is a place that will always be special to me and my family. I have been so fortunate to be even a small part of the incredible story of Princeton and Princeton women’s hockey. I have been fortunate to not only coach amazing young women, but to learn from them as they navigate their lives as exceptional players, students and leaders. It has been a joy to work and develop alongside dedicated colleagues who have helped me grow as a coach and leader in ways that have made this opportunity possible. I will always be thankful for my time at Princeton and appreciative of everyone who has been part of this journey with me. PWIH forever!”

Princeton will conduct a national search for its next head coach.

After 20 seasons at RIT, men’s hockey associate head coach Hills announces retirement

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HILLS

RIT men’s hockey associate head coach Brian Hills announced his retirement on Thursday.

Hills joined Wayne Wilson’s staff in 2005 prior to RIT’s inaugural NCAA Division I season and was a driving force behind the program’s success the last 20 years.

A rabid recruiter, Hills helped build a program that won 10 Atlantic Hockey championships, including four tournament titles and six regular-season crowns. He was also a part of four NCAA tournament appearances, including a run to the 2010 Frozen Four in only the team’s fifth season at the Division I level.

Hills was named the 2011 Terry Flanagan Award winner by the AHCA, which annually honors an outstanding assistant coach’s body of work.

“For two decades, Coach Hills has been one of the cornerstones of our men’s ice hockey program,” said RIT executive athletic director Jacqueline Nicholson in a news release. “His unwavering dedication, deep knowledge of the game, and mentorship have left a lasting impact on generations of student-athletes. He has played an integral role in building our culture and our success. We are incredibly grateful for his 20 years of service to RIT and wish him all the best in retirement.”

Hills helped mentor five All-Americans during his tenure, while Simon Lambert (2007-08) and Matt Garbowsky (2014-15) were both named finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, honoring the nation’s top player. Thirty-six players totaled 55 Atlantic Hockey all-conference honors along with 19 major Atlantic Hockey awards, including three players of the year. Eleven players were also named AHA all-rookie team members, including Chris Tanev in 2010, who went on to become the first player in program history to play in the NHL, appearing in over 850 career games since.

Hills was part of a staff that led RIT to more conference (273) and overall (349) wins than any other current AHA team, including the seven that were original members of the conference when it was founded in 2003-04 – three years before RIT joined the league.

“I was very fortunate to work alongside Brian for many years,” said Wilson, who recently announced his retirement after 26 seasons as head coach of the Tigers. “Starting from the first day he set foot on campus, he worked extremely hard on the recruiting trail, finding outstanding student-athletes that not only fit our program academically but also compete at a level and bring success on the ice. He was also able to develop them so they could reach their goals of playing professionally. Brian will be missed both as an outstanding coach and person by the RIT Hockey program.”

Before RIT, Hills was the head coach at Geneseo for four seasons. In 2004, he led the Knights a SUNYAC championship and a run to the NCAA Division III tournament quarterfinals, finishing with an 18-7-4 record and a No. 7 ranking in the final national poll. Hills amassed a record of 53-42-14 while reviving the program, including a 32-14-9 mark over his final two campaigns.

A 1983 Bowling Green graduate, Hills was a two-time All-American and two-time Hobey Baker Award finalist for the Falcons. He was named the CCHA player of the year as a senior after leading the conference in scoring for the second time and breaking the program’s all-time scoring record. Hills remains second on the list with 270 points on 116 goals and 154 assists in 156 games and still holds the single-season program record with 94 points (37 goals, 57 assists) during his senior year.

Hills was also voted a CoSIDA/GTE second team academic All-American as a senior and was a two-time CCHA all-academic team member before graduating with a degree in business administration. He went on to an 11-year professional career, playing eight years in Switzerland and three in Germany, while also winning three gold medals with Team Canada in Europe’s Spengler Cup.

Following his playing career, Hills spent seven years (1994-01) as an assistant coach at his alma mater under coach Buddy Powers, including five with Wilson on the staff as well. Hills’ resume also included assisting with Team Canada’s national team selection committee in 1997 and 1998.

Statement from Brian Hills:

I want to thank a number of Coaches and General Managers who had a significant influence on my coaching career. As a player, I learned from people like Mike Sadler, Dave Prpich, Owen Freeman, Jerry York, Bill Wilkinson, Buddy Powers, Terry Flanagan, Alex Andjelic and Herbert Appel.

Thanks to Buddy Powers for my first college coaching job and mentorship and to Marilyn Moore who hired me as Head Coach at Geneseo. In 2005, Wayne Wilson asked me to help him move RIT from Division III to Division I. We built something special and I truly thank him for that opportunity.

Thanks to all the assistants I had the pleasure of working with, especially Dave Insalaco and Chris Schultz. And naturally, a big shout out to all of the players at Bowling Green, Geneseo and RIT who made it so much fun to coach for the past 31 years.

Most importantly, I want to thank my family. Thanks to my wonderful parents, Joyce and Stan, for getting me started in hockey. Special thanks to my wife, Andrea, who two days after getting married was willing to move to Switzerland to begin our journey. She sacrificed so much as a hockey wife/mom. Thanks to our kids, Ali and Trevor, for their understanding of dad’s profession and going along for the ride. I am extremely grateful to all of you for my career in coaching.

Walton elevated from assistant coach to new head coach of Marian women’s hockey team

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Matt Walton brings his extensive coaching background to Marian (photo: Marian Athletics).

Matt Walton has been named the fourth head coach of the Marian women’s hockey team.

Walton spent last season on the bench for the Sabres women’s hockey team as an assistant coach.

“Marian University athletics is excited to name Matt Walton as the next head coach of our women’s ice hockey program,” said Marian director of athletics Tony Draves in a statement. “Matt has done a tremendous job as the interim head coach and has more than earned the promotion to run the program.”

“I am incredibly honored and excited to accept the position of head coach for the Marian University women’s ice hockey program,” added Walton. “I want to thank the administration, athletic department, and search committee for the opportunity to lead and contribute to a program with such great potential and tradition.”

Prior to Marian, Walton spent time as an assistant boys hockey coach for Hoosac School and as a scout for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton USPHL program. In both roles, he played a major key in the recruitment of future student-athletes. With Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, he helped recruit for all three teams of the USPHL program — NCDC, Premier, Elite.

His USPHL career began with the Jersey Hitmen where he served as the head coach of their Premier team for one season. While still having the responsibility of recruiting and scouting, Walton also was a major facet of player development both on and off the ice. The Hitmen earned 17 wins in his lone season as the bench boss, the most since the 2018-19 season and a mark that hasn’t been reached the past three seasons.

He has also spent time as head coach and director of scouting with GOTTA Hockey and a youth head hockey coach with the Chicago Blues and the Fort Wayne Amateur Hockey Association.

“My vision is to build a culture rooted in accountability, competitiveness, and growth, both on and off the ice,” said Walton. “I’m committed to developing student-athletes who excel academically, athletically, and personally. Together, we will strive to elevate Marian women’s ice hockey to new heights, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, integrity, and passion for the game. I can’t wait to get started with this dedicated group of student-athletes and begin laying the foundation for long-term success.”

Walton earned a degree in business of professional studies from Robert Morris while also competing for the school’s ACHA Division I team.

MSOE removes interim tag, names Richards head coach of Raiders men’s hockey team

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Brandon Richards will continue behind the bench for MSOE (photo: MSOE Athletics).

Milwaukee School of Engineering has announced that interim head coach Brandon Richards has been elevated to head coach for the MSOE men’s hockey.

“I am excited to see the Brandon Richards era begin” said MSOE athletic director Bill Massoels in a statement. “We had numerous quality candidates apply, but I kept coming back to Brandon and all the good things he has already done for the program and the university.”

Richards arrived to MSOE as an assistant coach starting in the 2022-23 season, helping the team to a 42-33-6 record, qualifying for the NCHA Harris Cup playoffs in all three seasons. He began his time as interim head coach on Jan. 24, 2025, going 5-3-2 record, including taking No. 3 Aurora to a shootout and upsetting No. 6 St. Norbert on the road, scoring four unanswered goals in the final period.

“First and foremost, I’m super excited just to have the privilege to lead a team like MSOE and this university,” said Richards. “I understand that this is a big job and having the full support of the university and the staff is exciting for both me and my family.”

Ferris State adds Cisek as new associate coach, DeMartino, Sarosy as new assistants for Bulldogs men’s hockey team

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From left, Zack Cisek, Justin DeMartino and Gehrig Sarosy – the new members of the Ferris State coaching staff.

Ferris State has announced the appointment of three new members of the coaching staff.

Zack Cisek has been named the Bulldogs’ associate coach, while Ferris State alum Justin DeMartino and Gehrig Sarosy are the new assistant coaches.

“I’m excited to have all three of these guys on board and believe they are the best fit for our program and what we are trying to achieve,” said Ferris State head coach Brett Riley in a statement. “Each of the three are outstanding additions and bring a variety of skills and abilities that will have a major impact for us moving forward. They’ll be excellent working with our student-athletes on a daily basis both on and off the ice.

“They will be great mentors, leaders and ambassadors and exemplify the passion for the game and the energy we need to continue to build our program in all areas.”

Cisek most recently spent the past three seasons coaching at Miami, where he was involved in virtually every facet of the program. He previously served as the associate head coach at Lake Superior State as an integral part of building the Lakers’ program in the CCHA. Cisek played collegiately at Michigan State and originally began his coaching career at Miami before serving as a volunteer assistant at Notre Dame prior to his LSSU tenure.

DeMartino returns to the Bulldog program after playing at FSU from 2010 to 2014. He was a member of the Bulldogs’ 2012 NCAA Frozen Four team and began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant for the Bulldogs. He has also coached in the AHL, USHL and NAHL. Most recently, he coached the Fox Motors 18U team following a stint as the video coach for the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins.

Sarosy rejoins Riley at Ferris State after serving on his staff at Long Island the past four seasons. He was a key part of LIU’s overall growth and served as the director of hockey operations and video coach. Prior to joining the Sharks, he held the video coach position for men’s hockey at Ohio from 2019 to 2021. Sarosy graduated from Ohio.

Muckalt leaves Lindenwood bench, replaces Shawhan as head coach at Michigan Tech with goal ‘to bring home the MacNaughton Cup and compete in the NCAA tournament’

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Bill Muckalt is no stranger to Michigan Tech, serving as an assistant coach with the Huskies from 2011 to 2015 (photo: Michigan Tech Athletics).

Michigan Tech has announced that Bill Muckalt has been named the new head hockey coach.

Muckalt is the 23rd head coach in program history and returns to Tech after one season as head coach at Lindenwood.

Muckalt replaces Joe Shawhan, who has led the Huskies since May 2017. In eight seasons, Shawhan went 154-120-29.

“Joe Shawhan was deeply committed to the success of our hockey program, fostering both athletic and academic excellence, and I thank him for working tirelessly to fulfill the mission of our athletic department and university,” said Michigan Tech VP for athletics and recreation Suzanne Sanregret in a statement.

Muckalt was an assistant coach for the Huskies from 2011 to 2015. He has signed a five-year contract to lead the Huskies.

“I’m excited to welcome Bill Muckalt as the next leader of our historic program,” said Sanregret. “He brings an elite hockey resume and experience at every level of the game. Bill understands the high expectations of our university, alumni, and community, and he has a clear understanding of today’s college hockey landscape. I look forward to working with him to build a strong vision and plan that will bring more championships back to Houghton.”

“I want to thank President Koubek and Suzanne Sanregret for this exciting opportunity to come back to Houghton,” Muckalt said. “This is a great hockey community and world-class university. I’m looking forward to getting to know our student-athletes and building relationships with them to have a successful season in the CCHA. My ultimate goal is to bring home the MacNaughton Cup and compete in the NCAA tournament.”

At Lindenwood in 2024-25, Muckalt led the Lions to their most wins in their three-year NCAA Division I history with key victories over Notre Dame, Omaha, and Wisconsin. Prior to getting hired at Lindenwood, Muckalt was the associate head coach at his alma mater, Michigan, from 2017 to 2023.

Prior to his time at Michigan, Muckalt was the general manager and head coach of the USHL’s Tri-City Storm of the USHL from 2015 to 2017. The Storm won the first Clark Cup in franchise history during the 2015-16 season, and Muckalt became just the fifth coach in the Tier I history of the USHL to win a championship in his first season.

As an assistant coach at Michigan Tech, Muckalt helped lead the Huskies to a No. 1 ranking early in the 2014-15 season for the first time since 1976. In 2012, Tech won the Great Lakes Invitational for the first time since 1980 and earned an at-large bid to the 2015 NCAA tournament for the first time since 1981.

As a player at Michigan, Muckalt won a pair of NCAA national championships with the Wolverines in 1996 and 1998. In 1998, he was named an NCAA West First Team All-American, all-CCHA first team, and team alternate captain.
He received his bachelor’s degree in sports management and communications.

Muckalt spent five years in the NHL with the Vancouver Canucks, New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators and Minnesota Wild, registering 97 career points on 40 goals and 57 assists. He retired as a player in 2004 after 256 career NHL games.

Michigan Tech will hold a press conference to welcome Muckalt on May 27.

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