Bemidji State University Women's Hockey
When it comes to women's hockey, Bemidji State University is one of the top programs in the United States. The team has a rich history of success, and has produced some of the most talented players in the sport. From their early days as a club team, to their current status as a Division I program, Bemidji State University Women's Hockey has become a force to be reckoned with.
The Early Days
Women's hockey at Bemidji State University began in the early 1990s as a club team. This group of dedicated women worked hard to build a competitive program, practicing and playing games whenever they could find the time. Despite facing many obstacles along the way, the team continued to grow and improve.
In 1997, Bemidji State University Women's Hockey became a varsity program, and things really started to take off. With the support of the university and the coaching staff, the team was able to recruit some of the best young talent in the country. They quickly became a force to be reckoned with, and started to make a name for themselves in the world of college hockey.
Recent Success
Over the past decade, Bemidji State University Women's Hockey has continued to grow and improve. The team has had numerous winning seasons, and has made multiple appearances in the NCAA tournament. In 2019, they won the WCHA Final Faceoff championship, cementing their status as one of the top teams in the country.
One of the keys to the team's success has been their coaching staff. Head coach Jim Scanlan has been with the program since 2012, and has helped lead the team to new heights. His passion for the game and commitment to his players have helped build a winning culture at Bemidji State University.
The Players
Of course, none of this success would be possible without the talented players who make up the Bemidji State University Women's Hockey team. Over the years, the program has produced some of the most skilled and dedicated athletes in the sport.
One of the most notable players in the program's history is Emily Erickson. A native of Coleraine, Minnesota, Erickson played for Bemidji State University from 2006-2010. During her time with the team, she set numerous records and won numerous awards. She was named to the All-WCHA First Team three times, and was a top-10 finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Award, which is given to the top player in women's college hockey.
Other notable players from Bemidji State University Women's Hockey include Kaitlyn Tougas, Whitney Wivoda, and Summer Thibodeau. These athletes have helped shape the program into what it is today, and have inspired countless young women to pursue their dreams on the ice.
The Future
Looking ahead, the future of Bemidji State University Women's Hockey looks bright. The team has a strong roster of talented players, and a coaching staff that is dedicated to helping them succeed. They will continue to face tough competition in the WCHA, but have proven time and time again that they are up to the challenge.
Off the ice, the program continues to be a leader in promoting women's hockey and empowering young women to pursue their dreams. They are committed to creating a positive and inclusive culture within the team, and in the broader hockey community.
In Conclusion
Bemidji State University Women's Hockey is a program that has overcome many obstacles to become one of the top teams in the country. From their early days as a club team, to their current status as a Division I program, they have always been driven by a passion for the game and a commitment to excellence.
The players and coaches who make up the Bemidji State University Women's Hockey team are true ambassadors for the sport. They inspire young women across the country to pursue their dreams on the ice, and continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in women's college hockey.