The Boston Red Sox and Atlantic Hockey have announced the addition of an Army-Bentley game to Frozen Fenway 2017.
The Black Knights and Falcons will play on Thursday, Jan. 5, at 7:30 p.m. EDT. The second game of their weekend series will be played on Friday, Jan. 6, at the John A. Ryan Skating Rink in Watertown, Mass.
“It is a great opportunity for our cadet-athletes to play in historic Fenway Park,” said Army coach Brian Riley in a statement. “We are excited to be part of Boston’s new winter tradition at Frozen Fenway. This will be an unbelievable experience for our team that they’ll always be able to look back on. We appreciate the league and Bentley for giving our program this incredible opportunity.”
“It is exciting for our team, school, and alumni to be part of the rich tradition of Fenway Park again this year,” added Bentley coach Ryan Soderquist. “It will provide another great venue to rally the university and alumni together as we continue to celebrate 100 years of Bentley.”
The updated schedule of Capital One Frozen Fenway 2017 hockey games is as follows:
Thursday, January 5, 2017:
• Army vs. Bentley at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 7, 2017:
• Boston University vs. Massachusetts at 1:30 p.m.
• Boston College vs. Providence at 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, January 10, 2017: Women’s and Girls Hockey Day
• Nobles & Greenough vs. BB&N at 3:00 p.m.
• Girls Youth Hockey Clinic at 5:00 p.m.
• Harvard vs. Boston College at 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, January 12, 2017:
• Connecticut College vs. Bowdoin (NESCAC, women) at 4:00 p.m.
• Massachusetts-Boston vs. Babson (NEHC, men) at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 14, 2017:
• Maine vs. Connecticut at 4:00 p.m.
• New Hampshire vs. Northeastern at 7:30 p.m.
The women’s Hockey East announced Tuesday that Boston University will serve as host of the 2017 women’s Hockey East tournament and championship weekend at Walter Brown Arena on Saturday, March 4, and Sunday, March 5.
The tournament will decide the winner of the Bertagna Trophy in the league’s 15th anniversary season.
“Walter Brown Arena is a terrific site for an event of this importance,” said league commissioner Joe Bertagna in a news release. “We are thankful for Boston University’s willingness to host and we are happy that our athletes will compete for this championship in such an historic venue.”
“Our program is proud to take on the responsibility of hosting Hockey East’s championship weekend,” BU head coach Brian Durocher added. “I’m confident that our entire administration and staff will do a great job in making it a world-class event and we look forward to supporting the league and all its great teams.”
Information regarding ticket sales and surrounding events will be released at a future date.
The semifinals will be held on Saturday, March 4, with games tentatively slated for 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. EDT. Single-admission tickets are valid for both Saturday contests. The winners of each semifinal will advance to the championship game on Sunday, March 5, which is tentatively scheduled for 1 p.m.
The four Hockey East semifinalists will play the quarterfinal round during the previous weekend (Feb. 24-26). The top eight teams in the league standings at the conclusion of the regular season will qualify for the postseason tournament and seeds No. 1-4 will host seeds No. 5-8 in a best-of-three quarterfinal series on campus sites.
What goes in to being a top forward in college hockey?
The game’s best forwards can stand out in a number of ways. They can be an elite shooter. The can play the game high speed and excel in the transition game. They can be a facilitator of offense, making the players around them better. They can be a strong leader that takes a team on their back and scores goals when it is needed the most. They can be power forwards capable of scoring dirty goals and knocking opposing defensemen off the puck.
There are all sorts of talents that make for a great forward and a top offensive player.
However, it is the players that fit into the majority of those categories, like this year’s top returning forward Brock Boeser of North Dakota, who are the most dangerous, and the most capable of taking their games successfully up to the National Hockey League.
The 10 Best Returning Forwards in College Hockey:
Brock Boeser took North Dakota to the NCAA championship in 2015-16 (photo: Candace Horgan).
The top returning forward in college hockey is really not much of a debate.
All Boeser did during his stellar first college hockey season was lead last year’s national championship-winning North Dakota squad offensively, racking up 27 goals and 60 points. Each was a benchmark for this year’s returning players, and there is little to doubt that, as a sophomore, Boeser will be in the discussion for the Hobey Baker Award.
“Brock is a phenomenal player and the best pure scorer at the college level that I’ve seen in a long time,” Denver coach Jim Montgomery said. “Every shot he takes, he’s not only trying to put it through the net, but out of the building. He’s a smart hockey player that makes the players around him better and I’m sure he will be one of top players in college hockey this year.”
It took just four games for Boeser to record his first college-level hat trick. The Burnsville, Minn., native was even better in the NCAA tournament, turning in a three-point performance against Northeastern in North Dakota’s opening game and then picking up two assists in the national semifinal against Denver. Boeser saved his performance for last, contributing a goal and three assists as the Fighting Hawks blew away top-ranked Quinnipiac in the title-clinching game.
“Being a freshman last year, (Brock) did very unfreshman-like things with his scoring ability and his overall game,” Nebraska-Omaha coach Dean Blais said. “He was noticeable almost every time on the ice, but he will be more of a targeted player this year because of some of the players that North Dakota lost.”
Expectations will be high for Boeser and North Dakota in 2016-17, just like they are every year in Grand Forks. But expect this super sophomore to deliver on all of his impressive promise, and lead the Fighting Hawks on a spirited title defense.
“(Brock) is rock solid on and off ice, very focused and loves to play,” CBS Sports Network/ESPN/NHL Network college hockey analyst Dave Starman said. “He developed into a multifaceted threat as the year went on and started to score from everywhere in many different ways. (Plus) he’s an ultimate team first guy, and a perfect fit to the North Dakota culture.”
Ryan Fitzgerald potted 24 goals a season ago for Boston College (photo: Melissa Wade).
2. Ryan Fitzgerald, Sr., Boston College (’15-16: 24-23—47)
On a Boston College squad loaded with offensive talent, the Eagles’ top offensive weapon carries a very familiar name. Fitzgerald is the just the latest member of the Fitzgerald clan to excel in the college hockey ranks, but this senior forward might just be the most gifted offensively of the bunch. His 24 goals and 47 points in 2015-16 attest to just how dangerous the North Reading, Mass., product is in the offensive zone.
“Boston College has a lot of good players, but (Fitzgerald)’s the guy that has given us a lot of fits in our matchups against them,” Northeastern coach Jim Madigan said. “Every time he’s played us, he’s ended up on the scoresheet more than once and he’s just a difference maker in games.”
Even with all the offense, like his famous father, Tom (who enjoyed a long career in the NHL), Fitzgerald plays a solid, two-way game. He also displays a tenacity and a willingness to stand up and fight for himself, despite a smaller 5-foot, 10-inch frame. It is that spirit and leadership that his coach Jerry York will miss the most when his senior leader moves on to the next level.
“Ryan has his dad’s compete level, but he is more of an explosive offensive forward,” York said. “He has quick hard release and is very accurate shooter. He has the ability to be a game changer with his stick skills and he’s improved each and every year with us.”
Omaha’s Austin Ortega has been a clutch performer for the Mavericks over the past three seasons (photo: Michelle Bishop).
Though Boeser is the nation’s top returning scorer, the most pure offensive player returning to the college ranks is Ortega. The speedy Escondido, Calif., native racks up goals in bunches, and has twice broken the 20-goal barrier in a single season. Plus, the goals Ortega scores are timely ones, as he has a chance to tie and break the NCAA record for game-winning goals playing in the ultra-competitive NCHC.
“He’s probably the most dangerous returning offensive player in college hockey,” Blais said. “He can score anyway you can score. He’s good on rushes, has a good shot, can score in front of the net, on rebounds, tip ins, on penalty shots or whatever. He’s three goals away from tying the NCAA record for game-winning goals and that’s a tribute to him and what he’s done for us.”
Blais continues to work with Ortega to round out his game in order to make it translate to the NHL. In the meantime, opposing defensemen and coaches know that whenever the Mavericks’ No. 16 takes the ice, they better keep their heads on a swivel or be prepared to stare at a lot of flashing red lights.
“(Ortega) has an unbelievable shot,” Montgomery said. “He scores big goals in big moments in games and he’s a very opportunistic player. If there is a turnover, he smells it and his transition to offense is very good.”
Boston College’s Colin White (18) had a fantastic freshman season for the Eagles in 2015-16 (photo: Candace Horgan).
4. Colin White, So., Boston College (’15-16: 19-24—43)
Freshman forwards rarely enter the college ranks as well rounded as White was last season for Boston College. His offense at times seemed effortless, as White quietly racked up 19 goals and 43 points on one of college hockey’s top offensive squads. That impressive first campaign included multi-goal performances against Wisconsin and Michigan, and a three-goal, four-point night against defending national champion Providence.
“Colin White is an outstanding skater with very good hockey sense,” York said. “He can play in all situations, and there is huge upside to his game. He has a real good change of speed and great edge control that enables him to ward off defensemen and attack the net.”
But there is far more to White’s game than just goals and points. The Hanover, Mass., native is an effective distributor of the puck who also works hard on the defensive end. As White continues to mature and grow into his 6-foot frame, the sky will be the limit to where he can take his game.
“As a freshman, Colin White scored 40-some points and that shows just how good a player he is,” Madigan said. “He’s really skilled, is a real cerebral player and has always produced points. Boston College lost a lot of offense last year, but with those two guys, Fitzgerald and White, as well as Austin Cangelosi (who scored 20 goals last year), that’s a pretty good trio to start from.”
Zach Aston-Reese was a major part of Northeastern’s turnaround season in 2015-16 (photo: Melissa Wade).
During the 2015-16 campaign, Northeastern staged what might have been the greatest in-season turnaround in NCAA hockey history. After stumbling to a 1-11-2 start, the Huskies closed on a 19-1-2 tear, winning the Hockey East playoff title and earning a surprising bid to the NCAA tournament.
A big reason for the reversal fortunes was the continued development and leadership of Aston-Reese. The Staten Island, N.Y., native found chemistry with the Stevens brothers, John and Nolan, to give Northeastern a dynamite top line.
“Zach plays the game the way you’d expect a player from Staten Island, New York,” said Madigan said of the Hockey East title-clinching goal scorer. “He plays hard, is reliable and is effective at both ends of the ice. He will be (counted on) as a leader of our team this year.”
All three top line players return for a squad expected to contend again in Hockey East, but Aston-Reese is the player opposing coaches have to be aware of. The senior’s best hockey might still be coming as he continues the maturation process. Aston-Reese jumped from 23 points as a sophomore to becoming Northeastern’s top pup as a junior by racking up 43 points in 2015-16.
“I do like Aston-Reese as a player,” York said. “You always have to be aware when he is on the ice.”
Undrafted, Justin Kloos will certainly have NHL options at the end of the 2016-17 campaign (photo: Jim Rosvold).
In order to stand out on a Minnesota squad stocked with high-end talent, you need to be a special player, and Kloos is certainly that. Though Kloos stands at only 5-foot-8, he’s a true leader and someone coach Don Lucia always looks to in the tough situations, especially when the Golden Gophers need a big goal.
“Slowing (Justin) down this season will be a big challenge for us,” Wisconsin assistant coach Don Granato said. “He is very talented offensive player that is dangerous on the ice. He is a big part of team that is deep on offense, strong and difficult to defend against.”
Because of his lack of size, and the fact that Kloos went undrafted on a squad full of future NHL prospects, it can be easy to underestimate the Lakeville, Minn., native. But with a resume that shows 107 points over the past three seasons, it’s a fact that Kloos is dangerous when there is a scoring chance to be had. As the Big Ten’s top returning scorer, big things will be expected of Kloos this season.
Expect the Golden Gophers’ star upperclassman to deliver in 2016-17.
“(When Kloos turns pro) he will be the prize of the college hockey free agency market,” Starman said. “He’s a nice skater with good hands, but he has a little toughness, knows how to gets through traffic and the puck seems to follow him. He has that extra step that allows him to get off the mark quickly, and is very responsible, composed and mature on the ice.”
Just a sophomore, Dylan Gambrell will be looked upon for even more offense with Denver this season (photo: Candace Horgan).
7. Dylan Gambrell, So., Denver (’15-16: 17-30—47)
After an 11-year hiatus, Denver returned to the Frozen Four last spring on the back of a pair of talented underclassmen in Danton Heinen and Gambrell.
Heinen moved on to the professional ranks during the offseason, but Gambrell is back and primed for a terrific 2016-17 campaign. A true facilitator on the offensive end, Gambrell is the type of player that makes his teammates better—as 17 goals and 47 points last season shows.
“(Dylan) quickly became a core player for us quickly last year,” Montgomery said. “He was dynamic offensive player for us who was fearless in attacking the net. Now he needs to lead others and help elevate their games. I think he’s ready for that because he has the confidence, the work ethic and the professionalism necessary.”
Opposing coaches know their players need a 60-minute effort to handle Gambrell, who is the type of player who never takes a shift off, or lets an offensive chance go to waste. As the Bonney Lake, Wash., native continues to develop, that containment challenge will only grow.
“(Dylan) is one of the top returning forwards in the country and a real good team player, who is good on the power play and penalty kill,” Blais said. “His role for Denver is a lot like Austin Ortega’s is for us. When the Pioneers need a goal, he’s usually in on it.”
Max French quietly scored 23 goals in 2015-16 for Bentley (photo: Omar Phillips).
8. Max French, Sr., Bentley (’15-16: 23-24—47)
On a national stage, players in Atlantic Hockey tend to fly under the radar and French is a perfect example of an unheralded star worthy of placement in a list of college hockey’s top players.
Despite a low profile, the Falcons’ top line was an offensive juggernaut last season, and French was a big reason why. Playing alongside senior Andrew Gladiuk and sophomore Kyle Schmidt, the West Kelowna, B.C., native led his team with 23 goals and 47 points.
“One player that stood out for Bentley when we played them was Gladiuk, but the other was French,” Madigan said. “He’s a very good offensive player and is very good around the net.”
Even without Gladiuk returning, expect French to take over hockey games for the Falcons. Madigan knows his team will have to watch out for the senior during this year’s home-and-home series with Bentley.
“Even though a lot of the Falcons’ offense revolves around (French), he doesn’t mind having the puck and he excels in the pressure situations,” Madigan said. “You certainly have to pay more attention when a player like him is on the ice.”
Luke Kunin will serve as Wisconsin’s captain as a sophomore this season (photo: Jim Rosvold).
9. Luke Kunin, So., Wisconsin (’15-16: 19-13—32)
Though the Badgers endured a second-straight difficult campaign last year, there are two big reasons for optimism in Madison.
The first is the team’s major overhaul behind the bench. Former NHL bench boss Tony Granato took over the reins of the Badgers, bringing with him a pair of fellow head coaching candidates in former Ohio State coach Mark Osiecki and former Team USA Under-18 Team coach Don Granato. The second is the team’s new captain, and one of college hockey’s top freshman from a year ago in Kunin.
Don Granato was very familiar with Kunin during his time with the U.S. National Team Development program, and looks forward to coaching him again this season.
“I’m excited to get the chance to work with Luke again,” Granato said. “He was a captain of my U18 World Championship winning team, and he was truly that—a leader and another arm of the coaching staff. What I enjoy most about Luke is his maturity and his professionalism. He’s very, very passionate about having success.”
On a Team USA squad that included first overall pick Auston Matthews, and nine other first-round NHL draft picks, Kunin was Granato’s go-to player in any situation. That carried over to a 19-goal, 32-point freshman season on a Wisconsin squad that won just eight games. Therefore, the Chesterfield, Mo., native will have to carry an even bigger load this season if the Badgers expect to the return to an elite level in the Big Ten.
“Taking on the role of being captain for us is not uncharted territory for (Luke), even though he’s young,” Granato said. “He’s been in big pressure situations with players that are in the NHL right now and he’s handled it with no problem. He’s young in age, but he has lots of experience as a leader.”
Ferris State has an explosive offense and is led by senior Gerald Mayhew (photo: Jim Rosvold).
10. Gerald Mayhew, Sr., Ferris State (’15-16: 16-25—41)
The WCHA lost a number of talented seniors a year ago, but Mayhew should pick up the puck right where forwards like Michigan Tech’s Alex Petan and Minnesota State’s Teddy Blueger left off.
The league’s top returning scorer with 16 goals and 41 points in 2015-16, Mayhew guided the Bulldogs on an unexpected run through the WCHA playoffs and then one win away from a Frozen Four berth.
“(Mayhew) is a really smart hockey player with great puck skills,” said Montgomery, who faced Ferris State in the NCAA quarterfinals. “I was very familiar with Gerald when I came to college hockey because of coaching against him in the USHL. It’s not a surprise to me that he’s become a dominant college hockey player.”
In a wide-open WCHA in 2016-17 expect Mayhew to make his presence felt in a big way. The Wyandotte, Mich., native and former high school “Mr. Hockey” (in 2011) has the ability to carry the Bulldogs on his own, and for that reason alone, expect Ferris State to again be one of the West’s very best teams.
Five More Forwards to Watch in 2016-17:
1. Tyler Kelleher, Sr., New Hampshire (15-16: 10-36—46)
2. Tim Clifton, Sr., Quinnipiac (15-16: 19-24—43)
3. Nolan Stevens, Jr., Northeastern (15-16: 21-22—43)
4. Joe Gambardella, Sr., Massachusetts-Lowell (15-16: 10-26—38)
5. Austin Cangelosi, Sr., Boston College (15-16: 20-17—37)
Five Impact Freshmen for 2016-17:
1. Clayton Keller, Boston University
2. Kieffer Bellows, Boston University
3. Tyson Jost, North Dakota
4. William Lockwood, Michigan
5. Carson Meyer, Miami
Longtime official Butch Mousseau works a Minnesota-St. Cloud State game at Mariucci Arena during the 2012-13 season (photo: Jim Rosvold).
In memoriam of the late Oliver “Butch” Mousseau, the men’s WCHA will retire his officials’ jersey No. 12, while on-ice officials will wear a specially-designed “12” sticker on their helmets throughout the 2016-17 season.
Mousseau, a longtime league official, passed away March 25 after suffering critical head injuries stemming from a fall to the ice during warm-ups prior to the second WCHA Final Five semifinal game on Friday, March 18 at the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Mich.
He was 48.
“Butch Mousseau will forever be in our hearts and minds,” said WCHA supervisor of officials Greg Shepherd in a statement. “Nobody wore the officials’ jersey with more pride and love for the game than Butch. It is only fitting that the No. 12 be forever retired in his honor.”
“The WCHA is, and always will be, a better league because of Butch’s involvement,” added WCHA president and commissioner Bill Robertson. “His legacy is one of the utmost professionalism, a truly infectious positivity and an ever-present smile that we would all do well to replicate. It is our hope that these small gestures are a reminder to us all of how lucky we are to have had Butch in our lives.”
While not mandatory, some WCHA schools will be memorializing Mousseau by placing the No. 12 in the referees’ circle on their home ice.
Mousseau was a full-time WCHA referee for 16 seasons, beginning with the 2003-04 campaign, and a part-time official in the NCHC since the league’s inception in 2013-14. He was also a USA Hockey official since 1998, worked as a referee in the ECHL beginning with the 1999-2000 season, and also had assignments in the AHL and now-defunct Central Hockey League. As the first Native American to work a game at the top level of the sport, Mousseau’s NHL officials’ sweater and skates are in the league’s Hall of Fame in Toronto.
Joey Mormina is the new assistant coach at Mercyhurst (photo: Colgate Athletics).
Mercyhurst recently announced that Joey Mormina has been hired to join the coaching staff, beginning with the 2016-17 season.
Mormina replaces former assistant John Ronan, who took a position at Union.
“We think he’s going to bring a lot of great perspective to the game,” said Mercyhurst coach Rick Gotkin in a statement. “He has a fresh set of eyes and has just finished playing, so he’s still going to look at things potentially from a player’s standpoint. It’s very important that we have that perspective of what the player is thinking in every situation.”
“I’m looking forward to helping younger players become better and reaching their potential at the college level, and then hopefully, after a good college career, watch them become good pros,” added Mormina.
A native of Montreal, Mormina spent his college career with Colgate from 2001 to 2005. During his time with the Raiders, he played a total of 141 games while scoring 16 goals and picking up 40 assists for 56 points.
Mormina was drafted in the sixth round (193rd overall) of the 2002 NHL Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers. Without a contract from the Flyers after Colgate, he started out his professional career with the Manchester Monarchs, which was the Los Angeles Kings’ AHL affiliate.
In July 2007, Mormina signed with the Carolina Hurricanes and spent time with their AHL affiliate, the Albany River Rats. He eventually received the call from Raleigh and joined the Hurricanes for a one-game stint in the NHL. Mormina played his only NHL game during a 4-2 home win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Feb. 14, 2008.
Outside of his one-game appearance in the NHL, Mormina spent 11 years in the AHL.
Mormina then spent one season with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins before spending one season with the Flyers’ AHL affiliate Adirondack Phantoms and then moving back to playing for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton for three seasons.
With WBS, Mormina served as the team’s 2011-12 alternate captain and wore the ‘C’ during the 2012-13 season.
After that, Mormina spent three seasons with the Syracuse Crunch, serving as the team’s alternate captain during all three seasons.
Last season, 2015-16, he split his time between the Crunch and the Rochester Americans.
“I’m a guy that has been through the system,” stated Mormina. “I’ve seen a lot and have been surrounded by a lot of good players, Hall of Fame players and good coaches, so I’ve learned from the best in the game and hope to pass that knowledge to younger players.”
Minnesota returns a lot of punch from last season’s championship squad, including top scorer Dani Cameranesi. (Melissa Wade)
The late addition of Amanda Kessel back to Minnesota’s lineup gave the Gophers just the jump they needed heading into the playoffs last season, and they rode that momentum to a sixth NCAA title, defeating Boston College in the final. The Gophers graduated a strong senior class, as in addition to Kessel, they lost scoring phenom Hannah Brandt and starting goalie Amanda Leveille. The Gophers return enough to still be one of the conference’s top teams, but with Wisconsin returning its top scorers and starting goalie, the Badgers look to be the team to beat this year.
Bemidji State
Last season
22-11-3, 17-9-2, (third). Lost to Minnesota-Duluth in the first round of the WCHA tournament. Names to know
Senior Britni Mowat: The goalie is a huge part of BSU’s recent success. An All-WCHA second team pick last season, she set BSU program goaltending records for wins in a season (22) and wins in a career (51).
“Each season is a new journey. The success our program has enjoyed in the past only gives our group the belief that it can be done, but there is a long way to go and a lot of hard work ahead. Our goal as a team is always the same: Try to improve every day. If we can embrace this process, that’s what will happen. There are no guarantees in this game, and this league is extremely competitive. We look forward to going out and doing the best we can each and every night.” – Coach Jim Scanlan. Three questions
1. Can the Beavers keep the momentum? They lost nine players to graduation and it was the group that started to bring Bemidji to prominence. With that leadership gone, there’s room for other players to step up and make sure the past few seasons weren’t a fluke.
2. Who’s going to score? Four of the top five scorers graduated, and the remaining high-scorer, Alexis Joyce, is a defenseman.
3. There was a culture change when coach Jim Scanlan took the reins. BSU set a program record in wins. Scanlan was named USCHO National Coach of the Year and WCHA Coach of the Year. How does he follow that up? Crystal ball
The Beavers surprise and finish third.
Minnesota
Last season
35-4-1, 24-3-1, (second). Won a sixth NCAA National Championship. Names to know
Senior Lee Stecklein: At 6 feet tall, Stecklein is an imposing presence on the Gophers’ blue line and was crucial to Leveille’s success in net. Her ability to clog up lanes and block shots should help Sidney Peters transition to the starting role. She was a second team All-American and first team All-WCHA last season.
Sophomore Sarah Potomak: The National Rookie of the Year was a crucial part of the Gophers’ season, especially down the stretch and in the Frozen Four, where she was named to the All-Tournament Team.
Senior Dani Cameranesi: While Hannah Brandt and Amanda Kessel were flashier, it was Cameranesi that led the Gophers in points and goals last season.
Freshmen Alex Woken and Patti Marshall won gold with the U.S. U-18 team at the 2015 and 2016 IIHF Women’s World Championships. Three questions
1. How will Sidney Peters fare in net? The Gophers counted on Amanda Leveille for the past four seasons and coach Brad Frost called her the most underrated played in the league. Peters has seen limited action, but faces some of the best players in the country in practice every day. Can she translate that to game action?
2. Can they hold off Wisconsin? Minnesota’s held the advantage in this rivalry in recent years, but history tell us that while one team has dominated a few years at time, the tide always changes. With no Amanda Kessel to come off the bench late in the season, do the Gophers have what it takes to three-peat?
3. Can they finish strong? The Gophers host North Dakota and Wisconsin for the final two weekends of the season, their two biggest rivals and the two teams most likely to be vying for top spot in the league. It’s likely every point will matter this season, so those four games will be crucial to how the final standings turn out. Crystal ball
Minnesota is never out of the conversation, but it may be time that the momentum shifts in Wisconsin’s favor. The Gophers finish second but still receive a bid to the NCAA tournament.
Minnesota-Duluth
Last season
15-21-1, 10-17-1, (sixth). Lost to Wisconsin in the semifinals of the WCHA tournament. Names to know
Senior Lara Stalder: The Switzerland National Team player was second on the team in scoring with 41 points in 34 games.
Senior Ashleigh Brykaliuk: Led the Bulldogs in scoring with 47 points in 37 games played. Her 18 goals and 29 assists were career bests.
Senior Sidney Morin is a scoring threat from the blue line. Freshman Sydney Brodt won gold at the 2016 U-18 Women’s World Championships with Team USA.
“Preparations began last spring to get our players in top shape for what will be a very exciting UMD hockey campaign. Our returning players put in the hours and effort to get themselves ready to go this fall, and our incoming freshmen are eager and excited to begin their Bulldog careers! We have an excellent group of seniors this season who have taken ownership over the team and are guiding the underclassmen in the right direction. There’s great energy around this group.” – Coach Maura Crowell. Three questions
1. Will a tough nonconference schedule work in their favor? Caught outside looking in when at-large bids have come around in the past, UMD has Boston College and Harvard as its only nonconference games this season. Wins will certainly give them some credence, but losses certainly won’t help.
2. Will Maddie Rooney be able to settle in the net for the Bulldogs? Crowell said it’s Rooney’s net and hopes that the security of having the spot locked up helps her be confident as the season starts.
3. Who’s going to step up and provide depth? Brykaliuk, Stalder, and graduated senior Michela Cava had almost 60 percent of UMD’s points last season. One prolific line won’t cut it in the WCHA, so the Bulldogs have to find players that can challenge on the second and third lines. Crystal ball
Minnesota Duluth finds scoring from the freshmen and finishes fourth. The Bulldogs will be in the conversation for an at-large bid.
Minnesota State
Last season
3-29-4, 0-25-3, (eighth). Lost to Wisconsin in the first round of the WCHA playoffs. Names to know
Senior goalie Brianna Quade: Made more than 1,000 saves last season, third most in the country.
Junior Hannah Davidson: Led the team with eight goals and was second in scoring with 17 points last season. Three questions
1. Will experience help? Last year the Mavericks had just one senior and 22 freshmen, including coach John Harrington. This season, being able to ease new players into the lineup should help the team not be so overwhelmed.
2. Can someone give Brianna Quade a rest? The goalie has been the team MVP a few years running; she really hasn’t had a choice and she’s been spectacular, considering the number and quality of shots she’s facing. However, all of Mankato would be OK if she didn’t have to carry the team anymore.
3. Can they pace themselves and be competitive all season? The Mavericks play four of the five series on the road and face Wisconsin and Bemidji as well as hosting Minnesota in the final month. It’s a brutal stretch for anyone, so Minnesota State needs to be fit enough to be there full strength at the end. Crystal ball
There’s only room to improve for the Mavericks.
North Dakota
Last season
18-12-5, 13-10-5, (fourth). Lost to Minnesota in the semifinals of the WCHA tournament. Names to know
Senior Lisa Marvin: Three surgeries and 22 months after a near-fatal accident where she was hit by a car, Marvin was cleared to play college hockey again last week.
Senior Halli Krzyzaniak: North Dakota’s best returning scorer as a defenseman. A lethal shot from the blue line. She has skated for Team Canada in the past two Women’s World Championships.
Sophomore Anna Kilponen: The Finland National Team member was named to the All-WCHA Rookie Team.
Senior Amy Menke was a second team All-WCHA selection and will anchor the offense. Three questions
1. Who’s going to win the net? Coach Brian Idalski feels Lexi Shaw pushed Shelby Amsley-Benzie to be better in net, but redshirt freshman Kristen Campbell will push her for playing time. Amsley-Benzie provided so much confidence for the Hawks in the net. The sooner they settle on one goalie, the better everyone will feel, I think.
2. Where will the scoring come from? North Dakota’s top three scorers – who accounted for 50 percent of their points last season – all graduated. They need some players to step up to make this season a success.
3. Can the freshmen make an immediate impact? Idalski said he never counts on the newcomers as the make the transition, but if North Dakota is going to be able to make waves this season, they’ll need some of their freshmen to make an impact. Crystal ball
It’s a bit of a rebuilding year for the Hawks and they finish fifth.
Ohio State
Last season
10-25-1, 6-21-1, (seventh). Lost to Minnesota in the first round of the WCHA playoffs. Names to know
Sophomore Lauren Boyle: Named to the WCHA All-Rookie team. Dishes passes from the blue line.
Senior Katie Matheny: Should see an increased role on an offense that will need veteran leadership. Three questions
1. Are they ready? With a late coaching change and a second off season chock-full of off-ice distractions, are the Buckeyes players mentally prepared to start their season? Just a week before the season started, Associate head coach Jess Koizumi admitted she hadn’t really seen the team skate or met with head coach Nadine Muzeral. Captains and the men’s staff were working with the team, but there’s likely to be a bumpy transition. Unfortunately for them, they face Wisconsin, Bemidji State, Minnesota, and Minnesota-Duluth before Halloween.
2. Will Jincy Dunne play? She’s listed on the roster as a redshirt freshman, but little is known about her health as she deals with complications from a concussion. She was listed on the roster at this time last season as well, but never suited up for the Buckeyes. Dunne took part in pre-Sochi camp with Team USA as a 16-year old.
3. Can they do more than just play spoiler? There were flashes of brilliance by the Buckeyes last season and their wins against North Dakota (twice) and Minnesota-Duluth played a part in how those team’s seasons ended up, but they need to find a way to win the games they should in addition to garnering a few upsets. Crystal ball
For their sake, I hope the Buckeyes can start to build something, but this isn’t the year they’re going to make a move. They’ll finish seventh.
St. Cloud State
Last season
13-18-4, 9-15-4, (fifth). Lost to North Dakota in the first round of the WCHA playoffs. Names to know
Sophomore Julia Tylke: Was impressive for the Huskies as a freshman and looks to be the center of their offensive efforts moving forward. Three questions
1. Is Madeline Dahl ready to be the starter? An injury has kept her from starting for more than two years and she’s going to see a lot of shots. Can she stay healthy and provide stability for the Huskies between the pipes?
2. Which freshmen are going to step up? Coach Eric Rud said he expects four of them to fight for ice time. He also said they need to replace the offensive output of Molly Illikainen by committee. There’s room for a newcomer to step in and be very important to the Huskies.
3. Can they play spoiler? If they can answer the first two questions, St. Cloud has the chance to make waves in the WCHA this season. They upset North Dakota and UMD last season, as well as battling to ties with them and Bemidji. There’s potential for the Huskies. Crystal ball
It’s a sixth place finish for the Huskies.
Wisconsin
Last season
35-4-1, 24-3-1, (first). Won the WCHA regular season and tournament crowns. Lost to Minnesota in the NCAA tournament semifinals. Names to know
Senior Ann-Renée Desbiens: The goalie broke multiple NCAA records last season, including shutouts in a season and consecutive shutout minutes. She also set new single-season records for save percentage and goals-against average. What’s she going to do for an encore?
Freshman Presley Norby: Looks to have joined juniors Sydney McKibbon and Sarah Nurse on the second line, making them even faster. Norby won gold with Team USA at 2016 Women’s World Championships. She was a late injury replacement after impressing coaches as a non-roster invitee to pre-tournament camp.
Freshmen Maddie Rowe is 5-feet-11, and brings needed height to the Badgers blue line. Seniors Jenny Ryan and Mellissa Channell anchor the blue line. Three questions
1. Who’s going to stop them? On paper and preseason polls, they’re the best team in the country. They return Desbiens and six of their top seven scorers.
2. Can they get past Minnesota? The Badgers beat Minnesota in the regular season, ending a long winless drought, and then downed the Gophers again in the WCHA tournament, but they couldn’t get past the Gophers in the national semifinal. In fact, the Badgers’ last four Frozen Four losses have come at the hands of Minnesota, dating back to the 2012 National Championship game. For the Badgers to win it all, they’ve have to find an answer for the Gophers.
3. Which freshman is going to make a difference? Last season, Sam Cogan cemented her role on the top line and tallied 27 points. The year before, Annie Pankowski was the National Rookie of the Year. Norby seems the odds-on favorite, but Abby Roque may be the dark horse, joining the Badgers’ potent third line. Crystal ball
Wisconsin repeats as conference champions – and wins it all.
Joe Sullivan has been named the third annual recipient of the NCHC’s Mark Rudolph Officiating Achievement Award for the 2015-16 season.
The award is named in honor of Mark Rudolph, a long-time official and distinguished administrator who resides in Colorado Springs and established USA Hockey’s National Officiating Program, among many other accomplishments. The award was officially established on Aug. 26, 2014, and is presented to a member of the NCHC officiating staff following each season at officiating camp.
A St. Louis native, Sullivan completed his third season as an NCHC referee and was presented with the award on Sept. 24 at a ceremony attended by all NCHC referees, regionally based linesmen and NCHC staff in Mendota Heights, Minn. The presentation was also attended by Sullivan’s parents, Dan and Annamarie Sullivan.
Sullivan joined the NCHC officiating staff for the inaugural season after enjoying many successful seasons of junior and professional hockey. Sullivan attended Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo., where he played collegiate club hockey and participated in the building of what is now a very successful ACHA program. Sullivan then concentrated his efforts into his pursuit of a full-time officiating career in professional hockey.
While working three seasons in the USHL under the U.S. Officiating Development Program’s guidance, Sullivan was selected to work the Clark Cup finals on three different occasions and was also selected to officiate the USHL’s All-Star Game on two occasions. During this same time, Sullivan was also assigned to work the Southern Professional Hockey League’s President’s Cup finals.
During the 2008-2009 season, Sullivan made the jump to the ECHL, where he was on staff for four full-time seasons as a referee. In addition to officiating at the NHL’s 2009 Prospects Tournament in Traverse City, Mich., Sullivan was selected to referee the ECHL’s Kelly Cup conference finals on four different occasions from 2009 to 2012. Sullivan also patrolled the ECHL’s 2011 All-Star Game in Bakersfield, Calif. and the Kelly Cup finals in 2012.
While working in the ECHL, Sullivan went on to officiate over 150 games in the AHL between 2010 and 2014, working his first Calder Cup playoff game in 2011.
Sullivan now works with USA Hockey amateur officials in the St. Louis area and recently accepted a position with the Missouri Ice Hockey Official’s Association as its development and education director, in which new participants are introduced to officiating and mentored during their early development.
During the 2014-15 season, the NCHC’s Officiating Program made the decision to become more active in fundraising for those who need assistance, and the “Movember Foundation” was selected as a charity that is committed to men living happier, healthier and longer lives. The foundation concentrates on three key areas as they relate to men’s health – testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and suicide prevention.
Sullivan volunteered immediately, offering his assistance in growing the NCHC effort and fully supported officials showing their human side, while putting away their razors during the month of November in support of the cause. Since then, Sullivan has organized and conducted “Movember” charity golf tournaments in both 2014 and 2015 at his home course in Missouri, which have greatly aided in the officiating program’s fundraising efforts, and his 2016 tournament is already scheduled.
The NCHC Officiating Program raised approximately $700 in 2014, but with Sullivan’s assistance and contributions from the entire NCHC officiating staff, that fundraising effort ballooned to over $5,400 in 2015.
“‘Sully’ has been one of our most consistent, professional and reliable officials to date, and I can place him into any game or situation without concern,” said NCHC director of officials Don Adam in a statement. “Joe’s well-respected within our staff and he quietly leads by example both on the ice and off. Sully’s contributions toward building our Movember fundraising effort have been invaluable and he consistently gives back to the officiating community both on the ice and off.”
On the ice, Sullivan has been selected to officiate the NCHC’s Frozen Faceoff championship tournament all three years so far, while being chosen to work the championship games in both 2014 and 2016. Sullivan was also nominated to advance to NCAA regional tournaments in both 2014 and 2016, working the regional championship game in 2014.
“It has been a pleasure getting to know Joe Sullivan over the past three years,” added NCHC commissioner Josh Fenton. “His commitment toward being an excellent official in the NCHC and all of college hockey is second to none. He is one of the best in our game. However, and more importantly, Joe’s work off the ice with the NCHC’s Movember fundraising has been incredible. To raise over $5,000 in just the program’s second year is outstanding and Joe is largely responsible for this success.
“We are proud to have Joe a part of the NCHC officiating staff and now a Mark Rudolph Award Winner.”
Hockey East commissioner Joe Bertagna and former Boston University captain Matt Grzelcyk celebrate the Terriers’ 2015 Hockey East championship (photo: Melissa Wade).
Hockey East has awarded a three-year contract extension to commissioner Joe Bertagna, taking him through the 2019-20 season.
The deal extends his tenure as both the longest-serving commissioner in Hockey East history and the longest serving commissioner in the six NCAA Division I conferences. This season marks Bertagna’s 20th with Hockey East and 35th as an administrator at the conference level, which includes 15 years with ECAC Hockey.
“On behalf of my colleagues in Hockey East, we are pleased to announce a contract extension for Joe,” said Executive Committee chair and Massachusetts-Lowell athletic director Dana Skinner in a statement. “Since he became commissioner in 1997, Hockey East has developed into a preeminent conference. Joe’s presence in the college hockey world and his leadership are essential for the Conference to continue to achieve excellence in the years ahead.”
“My family and I are appreciative of this continued opportunity afforded me by the athletic directors,” added Bertagna. “More than ever, I see this as a vote of confidence for the work that Kathy Wynters, Brian Smith and the extended Hockey East staff have done to keep Hockey East a leader in our part of the hockey world.”
Bertagna is best known for his administrative work in college hockey. After spending 15 years as the primary ice hockey administrator the ECAC, Bertagna became Hockey East’s fourth commissioner on July 1, 1997. A native of Arlington, Mass., Bertagna began working at the ECAC in 1982 when he was named tournament director. He was later named executive director of ice hockey before he was appointed ice hockey commissioner in 1991.
Bertagna made his mark immediately at Hockey East, engineering a multi-year television deal (SportsChannel New England) in his first month on the job. Shortly thereafter, league tournament attendance rocketed upward, leading to the event’s first-ever sellout in 2000. Bertagna was instrumental in bringing about the formation of the women’s Hockey East, just as he initiated league play for both Division I and Division III women’s programs while with the ECAC.
In 2013, the directors recognized his contributions to the women’s game by dubbing the women’s Hockey East championship trophy the Bertagna Trophy.
Hockey East has enjoyed unparalleled success on the ice during Bertagna’s tenure, winning seven men’s national championships, including 2015 champion Providence and five of the last nine, and regularly enjoying postseason accolades for many of its student-athletes. Eight of the last 18 players recognized as “Hobey Hat Trick” honorees have come from Hockey East schools, including 2015’s winner, Boston University’s Jack Eichel.
Nationally, Bertagna has been the executive director of the American Hockey Coaches Association since 1991, the only person to serve in that capacity and last year, he celebrated his 42nd year as a goalie coach, having operated his own clinics for thousands of goalies of all ages throughout New England since 1974.
He began his professional coaching career in 1985 with the Boston Bruins, remaining with the club as the goaltender coach until 1991 and rejoining the team for the 1994-95 season. He also was part of the coaching staffs of the U.S. Men’s National Team at the 1991 Canada Cup, the U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team at the 1994 Winter Olympics and with the Milwaukee Admirals from 1994 to 196.
Bertagna enjoyed a brief college coaching career at Harvard University in the late 1970s, serving as men’s junior varsity coach in 1976-77 and launching Harvard’s women’s hockey program in 1977-78. He served as head coach of Harvard women’s hockey for two seasons.
As a player, Bertagna began at Arlington (Mass.) High School, before going on to Harvard University. During his early career, he played for and learned from four Hall of Fame coaches: Ed Burns at Arlington and Ralph “Cooney” Weiland, Bill Cleary and Tim Taylor at Harvard. A two-year starter at Harvard (1971-72 and 1972-73), Bertagna led the Ivy League with a 2.45 GAA in 1972. After Harvard, he played professionally for the Milwaukee Admirals and in Cortina, Italy. He helped lead his S.G. Cortina d’Ampezzo squad to the 1975 Italian Championship.
Stephanie Grossi (8 – Syracuse) will need to be strong in her junior season for the Orange to topple Mercyhurst. (Omar Phillips)
The CHA has, in its history, been about one team: Mercyhurst. The Lakers have finished first in the league in 11 of 12 seasons, and even before the CHA tournament gave the winner an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament, Mercyhurst usually qualified as an at-large team. Other CHA teams have challenged the Lakers at times, including Robert Morris, which defeated the Lakers in 2012 in the CHA tournament before it gave an auto-bid, and RIT, which defeated the Lakers in the CHA tournament in 2014 and 2015. However, the Lakers have usually been the top squad. Last season saw Syracuse take the Lakers to overtime in the CHA tournament final, but Mercyhurst came out on top.
This season, USCHO women’s columnist Nicole Haase expects the Lakers to be challenged by both Syracuse and Robert Morris, but the Lakers should come out on top again.
Lindenwood
Last season
9-24-4, 5-11-4, (fifth). Lost to Robert Morris in the first round of the CHA tournament. Names to know
Junior Sarah Bobrowski: The Lions had just five players with double-digit points last season and their leading scorer graduated. Bobrowski finished 2015-16 with 27 points and will need to continue to find the net for Lindenwood to find success.
Sophomore Shannon Morris-Reade: She was named to the CHA All-Rookie Team at the end of last season. Her 23 points were third on the team.
Sophomore Jolene deBruyn: She was the only goalie aside from All-American Nicole Hensley to see ice time last season. Presumably the net is hers to lose, but living up to the precedent set by Hensley will be a lot of pressure.
The Lions return 16 of 20 players while adding eight new faces this season. They open the season at Minnesota, so they’ll need to rely on that veteran experience early on. Lindenwood hosts the 2006 Frozen Four in March Three questions
1. How do you replace Nicole Hensley? She set the all-time NCAA career saves record with 4,094.
2. Which underclassmen will step up and score points?
3. Can the defense provide more protection and allow deBruyn a chance to settle in? Crystal ball
Lindenwood may struggle to score while also missing Hensley’s presence in net. Sorry Lions, but I think you’ll finish last.
Mercyhurst
Last season
19-11-5, 14-3-3, (first). Won the CHA tournament, lost to Wisconsin in the first round of the NCCA tournament. Names to know
Sophomore Rachael Smith: Led the team in scoring as a freshman and was named CHA Rookie of the Year.
Sophomore Sarah McDonnell: As a freshman, received the CHA Goaltender Trophy for the lowest goals-against average (1.75) in conference play.
Fourteen of the team’s 23 players are underclassmen. Senior captain Paige Horton and senior Jillian Skinner provide a solid defense for the Lakers. Three questions
1. What can they do to break through in the NCAA tournament? They’ve qualified 11 of the past 12 seasons, but were eliminated in the first round seven times.
2. Can they hold of Syracuse? The Orange were voted preseason favorite, but Mercyhurst are the returning regular season and conference tournament champions.
3. Who steps up to fill Emily Janiga and Jenna Dingeldein’s spots? The seniors were the two of the team’s three top scorers and accounted for 50 points. Crystal Ball
The Lakers have finished first in the CHA in 11 of the past 12 seasons. It’ll be difficult to unseat them. They win the CHA and the NCAA autobid.
Penn State
Last season
12-19-6, 6-8-6, (fourth). Lost to Syracuse in the semifinals of the CHA tournament. Names to know
Senior Amy Peterson: She led the Nittany Lions in points last season with eight goals and 21 assists.
Senior Laura Bowman: Second in scoring last season with 17 goals and eight assists. Linemate with Peterson.
Sophomore Victoria Samuelsson: The Sweden National Team member had a successful freshman campaign and proved herself in the faceoff circle. That’s a role they’ll need her to improve upon so she can replace Bowman next season.
Freshman defense Olivia Villani was a late commit to the Nittany Lions. Junior Bella Sutton is the top returning defender. She needs to stay out of the penalty box, but is a scoring threat from the blue line.
“We want to build on the foundation that’s been created here, both on the ice and in the classroom, continue to represent Penn State with class, pride, and all-out effort, and play tough, aggressive hockey.” – Coach Josh Brandwene Three questions
1. Is Junior Hannah Ehresmann ready to take the net full time? She started 15 games in 2015-16 and had a 5-8-2 record.
2. Can the Nittany Lions build off last season’s success? They placed fourth in the CHA at the end of the regular season, but took Syracuse to triple OT in the tournament semifinal.
3. Can they be consistent and finish the season strong? Crystal Ball
With Syracuse and Mercyhurst worrying about each other, there may be a chance for Penn State to play spoiler and sneak in unnoticed. They’ll have to hold off an experienced Robert Morris, first. The Nittany Lions finish fourth.
RIT
Last season
8-27-1, 4-15-1, (sixth). Lost to Penn State in the first round of the CHA tournament. Names to know
Senior Taylor Thurston: She is a second-time captain and one of the team’s top five scorers last season as a defenseman.
Goalies Brooke Stoddart and Jenna de Jonge: RIT split its starts between three goalies last season. Stoddart and de Jonge had similar numbers, so it’ll be interesting to see who starts in net for the Tigers.
Seniors Cassie Clayton, Mackenzie Stone and Caitlin Stone will return as the Tigers’ top offensive line. Three questions
1. Can the underclassmen contribute? When 15 of the 23 players are freshman and sophomores, the players have to adapt quickly and find a way to make an impact on the ice.
2. Will the Tigers return to prominence? After an NCAA tournament berth in 2015, last season was a disappointment for RIT. Can they find their way back?
3. Will one of the goalies distinguish themselves? With three different goalies sharing minutes last season, it had to be difficult for any of them to find a rhythm. Stoddart and de Jonge are joined by freshman Terra Langteigne. Can one of them win the starting job and keep it? Crystal ball
With a young team, RIT may have a tough time unseating the favorites, but could gain valuable experience to return next season. They finish fifth.
Robert Morris
Last season
17-16-5, 7-9-4, (third). Lost to Mercyhurst in the semifinals of the CHA tournament. Names to know
Redshirt junior Brittany Howard: Led the Colonials with 17 goals and 23 assists and was named to the ALL-CHA first team. Led the CHA in points (40), power-play points (15), short-handed points (3), and assists (23).
Senior Mikaela Lowater: Was an All-CHA first team defender and ranked first in the CHA in power-play goals (7), as well as second in defenseman scoring (22) and power-play points (13).
The Colonials are returning 19 players from last season including their top four scorers. Freshman Jaycee Gebhard is a former AAA Midget Rookie of the year and JWHL Player of the Year. Sophomore Kirsten Welsh led all CHA defenders in scoring last season.
“Our outlook for the season is very positive. We feel we have some great experience and leadership in our upperclassmen in addition to a very impactful freshman class. Aside from championship goals, this year we will look to continue to build our team chemistry and create the ultimate environment for the success of our program and our student-athletes.” – Coach Paul Colontino. Three questions
1. Can the Colonials find consistency, especially in conference?
2. What will it take to topple Mercyhurst and Syracuse?
3. Can the freshmen find ice time? Crystal ball
Robert Morris is the CHA team most likely to play spoiler. They’ve got a ton of experience and that may help them move ahead. I’m cautiously picking them third, but would not be surprised to see them higher.
Syracuse
Last season
19-14-3, 14-4-2, (second). Lost to Mercyhurst in the finals of the CHA tournament. Names to know
Junior Stephanie Grossi: Led the Orange in points and was first team ALL-CHA.
Senior Jessica Sibley: Won the CHA scoring trophy and Best Defensive Forward Award.
Junior Alysha Burris who was also a first team selection Three questions
1. Can the Orange live up to the expectations? They had a program record for wins in 2014-15 and return 17 players. They needed triple overtime to beat Penn State in the conference tournament semifinals and took Meryhurst to OT before losing in the final.
2. Will the schedule be a help or a hindrance? They bring in Bemidji State and travel to North Dakota, Northeastern, Boston College, and Clarkson. Wins in some of those games could see Syracuse looking at a chance for an at-large NCAA bid if they don’t win the CHA tournament.
3. Can they close strong? They play three of the final four games of the season on the road against conference opponents. Crystal ball
Mercyhurst has momentum and history on its side and this is a tough schedule the Orange are facing. I don’t see Syracuse unseating the Lakers, but if they make waves with this schedule, there’s room this year for them to sneak up the rankings and get an at-large.
Rick Filighera has been named the women’s head coach at Cortland.
Filighera joins the Red Dragons with an extensive coaching background having most recently served as the girls head coach at Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, Ohio, for the past 12 years.
“I am extremely pleased and excited to welcome Rick as our new women’s ice hockey head coach,” Cortland director of athletics Mike Urtz said in a statement. “With his experience and knowledge of the game, I anticipate a great future for the program. No doubt, he is an excellent addition to the Red Dragon staff.”
Prior to the Gilmour Academy, Filighera was the inaugural women’s head coach at Maine in 1997 where he led the squad through the 2003-04 season. He was nominated for the ECAC Coach of the Year during his first season behind the bench and finished as the runner-up for Hockey East Coach of the Year in his final campaign.
Previously, Filighera held his first collegiate head coaching position with the RIT women’s team from 1995 to 1997. He helped guide the program to a pair of ECAC playoff semifinal appearances, including a runner-up finish in 1996. He began his career as an assistant coach at Brockport (N.Y.) High School and eventually assumed the head coaching position from 1993 to 95.
“I feel very fortunate and honored in becoming the new head women’s coach at SUNY Cortland,” stated Filighera. “I would like to thank Mr. Urtz and the athletic department staff for giving me this opportunity. I look forward to the challenge of building this program and believe my experiences over the past 20 years in the women’s game will help me lead the SUNY Cortland program into the future.”
Throughout his career, Filighera has attended multiple clinics and mentored at several regional and national ice hockey camps. He also served as the head coach of the Gilmour Gladiators, a girls’ U14 Tier II team, from 2014-16, guiding the team to a Mid-Am district title and quarterfinal appearance at the USA Hockey Tier II national tournament in Lansing, Mich., in 2015.
A native of Buffalo, N.Y., Filighera received a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Brockport in 1991 and earned his master’s degree in educational leadership at Maine in 2004.
Walter L. Bush, Jr., passed away Sept. 22 at the age of 86, just three days shy of his 87th birthday.
USA Hockey’s co-chairman of the board, former president and namesake of USA Hockey’s national headquarters – The Walter L. Bush, Jr., Center – in Colorado Springs, Bush played an integral role in the growth of hockey in the United States since beginning his service for the Amateur Hockey Association of the United States in 1956.
“Walter Bush has been the single most influential person in the development and evolution of the structure of amateur hockey in the United States,” said Ron DeGregorio, co-chairman of the board of USA Hockey, in a statement. “He was a leader in the Olympic movement and his passion for sport was evident each and every day. We’ll miss him dearly, in particular his wisdom and wit.”
“Walter’s a big reason why our sport is as strong as it is today,” added Jim Smith, president of USA Hockey. “He’s been a mentor to so many, including myself. USA Hockey and the sport overall are so much better because of Walter Bush.”
“Walter’s passing is a tremendously sad moment not only for our organization, but for the entire hockey community,” said Dave Ogrean, executive director of USA Hockey. “He helped create opportunities for so many because of his unending passion and commitment to advancing our sport. He’ll be missed more than words can describe and our heartfelt condolences go out to his family.”
Born in Minneapolis on Sept. 25, 1929, Bush learned to play hockey at a military school before attending Dartmouth from 1947 to 1951. He went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota’s law school and skate for a pair of United States Hockey League teams – the Minneapolis Culbertsons and the Minneapolis Millers – before turning his focus to the administrative side of the sport.
From 1955 to 1958, Bush served as president for the newly created Central Hockey League before signing on as a member of the AHAUS’s (now USA Hockey) board of directors in 1959. That year, he served as a team manager for the U.S. Men’s National Team, and helped convince the Soviet Union to make an appearance in the United States for the first time. He went on to serve as a director for the United States Olympic Committee during the 1960 Olympic Winter Games in Squaw Valley, Calif., and later served as general manager of the U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team in 1964.
The Minnesota Amateur Hockey Association’s president from 1961-63, Bush helped run the CHL’s Minneapolis Bruins as owner and president from 1963 to 1965 before turning his sights to the National Hockey League. He successfully bid for an expansion franchise in his home town, and served as president of the Minnesota North Stars for over 10 years (1966-76) and chairman of the board from 1976-78.
“Walter Bush was a formidable presence at all levels of the hockey world,” stated NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. “Walter made important and lasting contributions to the sport. His impact was felt, nationally and internationally, in the professional and the amateur ranks, in women’s hockey as well as men’s. Most important, Walter was a wonderful man – loved and respected and a delight to be with.”
In 1972, Bush became the first-ever U.S. born official named to the Hockey Hall of Fame Board of Directors, and was honored with the Lester Patrick Award in 1973 for his outstanding service to hockey in the United States. In 1980, he was elected to the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame and, 20 years later, was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
In 1986, Bush was named president of AHAUS, a role he would take on for 17 years until his retirement in 2003. During that span, he also served served on the U.S. Olympic Committee Board of Directors from 1989 to 1993 and again from 1996 to 2003, was named the U.S. Olympic Foundation secretary in 1997 and was an owner of the American Hockey League’s Kentucky Thoroughblades from 1996-2001. Bush received the Olympic Order from the International Olympic Committee in 2002, the highest honor of the Olympic movement.
Additionally, he served on the International Ice Hockey Federation Council from 1986 to 2008, and played a key role in instituting the first-ever IIHF World Women’s Championship in 1990. Bush went on to serve as the IIHF vice president from 1994 to 202008, and was elected to the IIHF Hall of Fame in 2009.
“International hockey wouldn’t be what it is today without his impact,” said Rene Fasel, president of the IIHF. “I doubt women’s hockey would be an Olympic sport today had Walter not pushed so hard for it in the mid-90s.”
In 2003, Bush was named chairman of the board of USA Hockey, a role he held until his passing.
American International added two new staff members on Thursday in Matt Voity and Alec Rippetoe.
Voity will return as a volunteer assistant coach and previously worked with AIC from 2011 to 2014.
“Matt is one of the top goaltending coaches in the industry,” AIC head coach Eric Lang said in a statement. “We are extremely excited about his return. Again, as we look to improve all aspects of our program, having a qualified coach like Matt is only going to help our goaltenders play more consistently.”
Voity will oversee the development and training of returning goaltenders, senior Hunter Leisner and junior Alex Murray, along with freshmen Justin Ketola and Zackarias Skog.
“I am very excited to be coming back,” Voity added. “I’ve known Eric for a few years now and I’m excited to have the opportunity to coach with him and [assistant coaches] Mike [Towns] and Steve [Wiedler]. I see the program having a very bright future. The goaltending looks to be in great shape for next few years. I really like our depth there with Murray and Hunter and the new guys coming in.”
Voity worked with Massachusetts from 2014 to 2016 and prior to his first stint at AIC, he coached with Connecticut College from 2010 to 2013 and with several prep schools and local programs.
Rippetoe is the Yellow Jackets’ new director of hockey operations and team video coordinator.
“As we continuously try to improve all aspects of our program, finding a person like Alec with Hockey East experience to fill our director of hockey operations position will make for a seamless transition,” Lang said.
Rippetoe joins the staff after graduating from Merrimack in May. During his two years at Merrimack, he served as a video coordinator intern for the school’s Division I men’s hockey team and also has experience working with Canadian professional hockey schools and summer camps.
“This is a good opportunity for me to grow my knowledge of the game of hockey, as well as behind the scenes in the business aspect,” Rippetoe said. “I think that being a newcomer, you have to learn, and this team is a perfect fit for me – we’re both trying to prove something this year.”
At AIC, Rippetoe will be primarily responsible for video coordination and statistical analysis, in addition to planning for travel and other organizational tasks.
“As we look to do more with video and our advanced stats, we know Alec will help with our preparation in these ever-growing areas,” Lang said.
Defending national champion North Dakota is the preseason favorite in the NCHC (photo: Rachel Lewis).
North Dakota was chosen as the favorite to capture the 2016-17 Julie and Spencer Penrose Memorial Cup as NCHC regular-season champions in the league’s preseason media poll.
UND, also the defending national champion, received 25 of the 30 first-place votes to total 235 points in the poll, while Denver was chosen second with 200 points and garnered three first-place votes. Minnesota Duluth, last year’s preseason favorite, landed third in the poll with 173 points and claimed the final two first-place votes.
Ethan Moreau played 15 years in the NHL and in the OHL for Niagara Falls, not far from the Niagara campus (photo: Andy Devlin/NHLI via Getty Images).
Niagara announced on Wednesday the hiring of Ethan Moreau as the team’s new assistant coach.
A 15-year veteran of the NHL, Moreau joins the Purple Eagles for the 2016-17 season.
“Ethan’s decorated professional career on the ice will help him transition quickly to coaching,” Niagara head coach Dave Burkholder said in a statement. “We want our players at Niagara to develop a professional attitude and mindset, and there is no one better for them to learn those skills from than a former NHL player. Ethan’s experience is a huge gain for us in the hockey department. Beyond that, he is a tremendous person with a track record of helping out in the community. I know Ethan as someone who is dedicated to living all aspects of his life with class and character. He is a family man first and brings so much to our campus. I welcome his wife, Ornella, and children, Trey and Mia, to the Niagara University family.”
Moreau’s NHL career spanned 15 seasons, in which he collected 147 goals and 140 assists in 928 games with the Chicago Blackhawks (1995-99), Edmonton Oilers (1999-2010), Columbus Blue Jackets (2010-11) and Los Angeles Kings (2011-12).
Among current NCAA Division I hockey coaches, only three played more games at the NHL level than Moreau: Boston University assistant coach Scott Young, Michigan State assistant coach Kelly Miller and Michigan head coach Red Berenson.
Prior to his time in the NHL, Moreau played in the Ontario Hockey League, spending the vast majority of that time with the Niagara Falls Thunder. In 248 OHL games, Moreau tallied 322 points on 134 goals and 188 assists. In 1994, Moreau was awarded the Bobby Smith Award, given annually to the OHL player who best embodies excellence on the ice and in the classroom.
The connection between Moreau and Burkholder spans over 20 years. Burkholder began his coaching career with Niagara Falls during the 1993-94 season under head coach Chris Johnstone. Following that season, Moreau was taken in the first round (14th overall) by the Blackhawks.
After retiring from the NHL in 2012, Moreau joined the scouting staff of the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens as a pro scout for three seasons. Moreau joins the Purple Eagles after serving as a development coach at the HarborCenter Academy of Hockey in Buffalo, N.Y., for the past year.
“My family and I are extremely excited to be a part of the long-standing history at Niagara University,” Moreau added. “Joining the athletic department and hockey staff will be a new challenge and I intend to help get Niagara hockey back to the NCAA tournament. I am honored to serve as Coach Burkholder’s assistant and I look forward to learning from his extensive knowledge. I would like to thank the university and athletic director Simon Gray for this opportunity.”
Gerald Mayhew posted 16 goals and 41 points in 41 games during the 2015-16 season for Ferris State (photo: Michael Dubicki).
On Tuesday, the WCHA announced the results of its coaches and media preseason polls, in addition to preseason All-WCHA Teams, preseason Player of the Year and preseason Rookies of the Year.
Bowling Green took the top spot in both polls, while Ferris State’s Gerald Mayhew was tabbed preseason Player of the Year in both.
Minnesota State forward Parker Tuomie took top rookie honors from the coaches and Ferris State defenseman Cameron Clarke was honored by the media.
WCHA Coaches Poll
School (First-place votes)
Total points
1. Bowling Green (8)
89
2. Michigan Tech (2)
79
3. Minnesota State
71
4. Ferris State
70
5. Northern Michigan
54
6. Bemidji State
48
7. Lake Superior State
44
8. Alaska-Anchorage
29
9. Alabama-Huntsville
23
10. Alaska
21
WCHA Media Poll
School (First-place votes)
Total points
1. Bowling Green (15)
251
2. Michigan Tech (6)
239
3. Minnesota State (5)
236
4. Ferris State (2)
218
5. Northern Michigan
161
6. Bemidji State
144
7. Lake Superior State
106
8. Alaska
68
9. Alabama-Huntsville
66
10. Alaska-Anchorage
50
In addition, both the coaches and media selected preseason All-WCHA Teams.
Penn State entered the Division I ranks in 2012-13, starting its fifth season as a varsity program in 2016-17 (photo: Jim Rosvold).
Arizona State became the 60th current school to ice an NCAA Division I men’s hockey program last season.
Others could possibly be on the way, but there’s a lot to be done before that can happen.
Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia, became the first Canadian/international school to gain membership in the NCAA five years ago. It offers 14 varsity sports in all, but surprisingly, hockey is not one of them, although that could change.
Another potential Division I hockey tryout for a new school could come this fall, as Simon Fraser is scheduled to play exhibition games against northwest “neighbors” Alaska-Anchorage and Alaska (Fairbanks), plus two games at Arizona State.
The Clan has also played against other NCAA opponents in the past besides the Alaska schools, such as Holy Cross, Miami, Northeastern and Princeton. SFU even stretched visiting North Dakota to the limit before falling 4-3 in Jan. 2014.
In April of this year, SFU revealed that it had hired an independent consulting firm for the purposes of researching a potential business model that would support both NCAA hockey and sand (beach) volleyball programs at the school. The report was expected to reach completion in six months.
“The consultant is helping us determine the expenses and revenue opportunities associated with hockey and sand volleyball for our market,” Simon Fraser senior director of athletics and recreation Theresa Hanson said in a statement. “At the same time, we are reviewing our current organizational structure and budget model and developing a business plan that will address the gaps and help us move forward in a positive and sustainable way”.
In almost all its other intercollegiate sports, SFU competes in NCAA Division II as a member of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC), which does not sponsor hockey.
No matter.
“Canada versus the United States has worked at all levels of international hockey, and we want to understand what that would look like from a business perspective at the collegiate hockey level,” added Hanson. “If these programs work from a business perspective, then I believe these two initiatives have the potential to strengthen Simon Fraser’s reputation and add prestige to the university, enable us to continue to recruit the best student-athletes and the best faculty, and will immeasurably strengthen campus life.”
SFU director of hockey operations Chris Munshaw could not comment officially on behalf of the athletics department when asked this summer about the possibility of the club team moving up to NCAA Division I. As one could guess, however, hockey would be a natural candidate to become a varsity sport in Western Canada.
“BC is such a hockey-crazed market and with SFU being Canada’s only NCAA member, it’s been a popular debate from day one in and around the school,” he said in July.
The Clan would likely continue to play in Bill Copeland Arena in Burnaby, at least for the first few years of varsity status, if not beyond.
“It has been a first-class facility for us for the past six years,” said Munshaw.
It’s not like the possibility of college hockey programs upgrading from the club level to NCAA Division I hasn’t been accomplished before. The overriding factor, of course, is money—and obviously not everyone has a Terry Pegula who can donate $102 million of his own money to not only fund hockey scholarships at Penn State, but also house NCAA programs in a new, state-of-the-art, on-campus rink.
Not everyone is Arizona State, either, which got $32 million out of the blue to upgrade from club status to the big time, even with permanent home rink questions still dogging the Sun Devils.
Minot State University in North Dakota could be another candidate to one day go Division I.
Operative term — could be.
“We really haven’t had any major discussions on the move,” said outgoing Minot State athletic director Rick Hedberg, who is transitioning to the position of VP for advancement, earlier this summer. “A local sports reporter ran an article this spring on the possibility of adding ice hockey that got a lot of people talking, but we haven’t had any discussions on campus.
“There are no plans to add ice hockey.”
Compounding the possibility of adding Division I hockey would be that all varsity athletic programs at Minot State would also need to be elevated to the NCAA Division I level.
“From what the NCAA has told us, we would need to move all programs to Division I,” explained Hedberg. “As you know, there is no Division II ice hockey championship. The D-II schools that had ice hockey prior to 2010 are grandfathered. We obviously wouldn’t qualify there, thus the need to move all teams to D-I.”
The NCAA Division II men’s hockey championship ended in the late 1990s, forcing schools like Alabama-Huntsville and Bemidji State to go up to Division I.
Money, of course, would also be a factor, and is seemingly in short supply in higher education today. That includes in Alaska, where either the Alaska Nanooks or UAA Seawolves, or even both teams, could potentially cease to exist if budget cuts there run deeply enough to warrant eliminating college hockey in the 49th State altogether.
“Our state is currently looking at cutting budgets, and this will definitely affect higher ed,” said Hedberg, who wouldn’t speculate on if the 3,900-seat All Seasons Arena would remain the home of Minot State hockey if the program(s) went varsity.
There have been stops and starts in the past, elsewhere, before Penn State and Arizona State joined the NCAA Division I roster in the last few years.
Minnesota State-Moorhead considering upgrading its hockey program to Division I in 2012, but couldn’t meet a self-imposed deadline for obtaining a $37 million endowment from private sources.
Kennesaw State, about 20 miles north of Atlanta, toyed with the idea of joining Alabama-Huntsville as the second NCAA Division I hockey program in the Deep South just over a decade ago, but that idea apparently didn’t go anywhere.
Other Division I men’s hockey programs have gotten started and given it a go for a while over the last 50 years, only to ultimately turn out the lights. That list includes Fairfield, Findlay, Illinois-Chicago, Iona, Kent, Northern Arizona, U.S. International and Wayne State.
There are other, larger schools that could potentially one day go Division I on ice, such as Big Ten members Nebraska and Iowa, which have built or are building new ice-centric facilities. The possibility hasn’t been publicly discussed at Nebraska, which opened the John Breslow Ice Hockey Center in December, although the $11 million rink only seats 700 spectators.
Iowa officials have stated that the school is trying to keep its current athletic lineup healthy, despite the fact that a new 6,000-seat arena is scheduled to be built in Coralville, just a few miles from the Iowa City campus, in a state already well-known for junior hockey.
“I grew up in Minnesota,” said Iowa athletics director Gary Barta to The Gazette in Cedar Rapids in June. “I played hockey, I love hockey. I really do. We had a terrific year, things are getting better. But until all of our sports are at a level where I want them, it would dilute if we added sports. If we add men’s hockey, we’re going to add women’s hockey, so really you’re talking about adding two sports, so there’s a lot involved.”
Quinnipiac and Princeton are two of the top teams in the ECAC and land in the top three of the 2016-17 preseason coaches poll (photo: Shelley M. Szwast).
Defending regular-season and playoff champion Quinnipiac was selected the team to beat in the ECAC women’s preseason coaches poll that was released Tuesday.
The Bobcats earned six first-place votes, while Clarkson (four) and Princeton (two) also garnered first-place nods.
School (First-place votes)
Total points
1. Quinnipiac (6)
114
2. Clarkson (4)
109
3. Princeton (2)
102
4. Colgate
96
5. Harvard
74
6. Cornell
72
7. St. Lawrence
68
8. Rensselaer
48
9. Yale
45
10. Dartmouth
31
11. Brown
19
12. Union
14
In addition, the conference also announced its preseason All-League Team.
