Plymouth State Women's Ice Hockey
When it comes to collegiate sports, ice hockey is often dominated by men's teams. However, at Plymouth State University, the women's ice hockey team is making waves and establishing itself as a rising power in the world of college athletics.
The Early Years
Plymouth State's women's ice hockey team was founded in 2000, with only a handful of players and a small coaching staff. Despite the challenges of starting a new team from scratch, the women's ice hockey program quickly began to make a name for itself. In its first year, the team had a winning record, finishing with a record of 7-4.
The Road to Success
Over the years, Plymouth State's women's ice hockey team has continued to grow and improve. The team regularly competes in the highly competitive New England Hockey Conference, which includes some of the best teams in the country. Despite the tough competition, the Plymouth State Panthers have held their own, qualifying for the conference playoffs in multiple seasons.
One key to the team's success is the coaching staff, led by head coach Mykul Haun. Haun has been with the program since its inception and has built a culture of hard work and dedication. Under his leadership, the team has continued to improve year after year and has attracted some of the top players in the region.
Building a Winning Team
Building a winning team takes more than just a talented coach; it also requires talented players. The Plymouth State women's ice hockey team has been fortunate to have some of the best players in the region over the years. One of the most notable players in the team's history is Shannon Hickey. Hickey played for the team from 2005-2009 and was one of the most dominant players in the conference during her time at Plymouth State. She finished her career with 105 points, which ranks among the top in school history.
Another key player for the team is senior captain Alivia Bates. Bates has been a standout for the Panthers since she arrived on campus, earning all-conference honors multiple times. She is a leader on and off the ice and sets an example for the younger players on the team.
The Future of Plymouth State Women's Ice Hockey
The future looks bright for the Plymouth State women's ice hockey team. The program has established itself as one of the best in the region and has attracted some of the top players in the country. With a strong coaching staff and a talented roster of players, the Panthers are poised to continue their success in the years to come.
One challenge facing the team is the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Like many other college sports teams, the Panthers have had to adapt to new protocols and restrictions to keep their players safe. However, the team has remained committed to its goals and continues to work hard in practice and games.
Conclusion
The Plymouth State women's ice hockey team is a shining example of what can be accomplished with hard work, dedication, and talent. Despite facing challenges along the way, the team has continued to grow and improve, establishing itself as a rising power in the world of collegiate athletics. With a bright future ahead, the Panthers are sure to continue making their mark on the ice.