Best D3 Women's Hockey Schools
If you are a female ice hockey player who is looking for the best D3 women’s hockey schools to attend, then you have come to the right place! As you may already know, D3 hockey is a great option for student-athletes who are looking to balance their academic and athletic pursuits. And with so many fantastic D3 women’s hockey programs out there, it can be tough to know where to start your search.
What to Look for in a D3 Women’s Hockey School
When considering D3 women’s hockey programs, there are a few key factors that you should keep in mind:
- Academics: As a D3 athlete, academics should always come first. Look for schools with strong academic programs that align with your interests and career goals.
- Location: Consider whether you want to attend school in a big city or a smaller town, and whether you prefer a colder or warmer climate.
- Facilities: Make sure to take a close look at the school’s hockey facilities, including the rink and training facilities.
- Coaching Staff: Look for schools with experienced and dedicated coaching staff who can help you develop your skills both on and off the ice.
- Team Culture: Consider the team culture and whether it aligns with your own values and goals.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at some of the best D3 women’s hockey schools in the United States.
1. Middlebury College
Middlebury College, located in Middlebury, Vermont, is consistently ranked as one of the top D3 women’s hockey programs in the country. The team has won seven national championships and has made 12 Final Four appearances in the past 14 years.
Off the ice, Middlebury is known for its strong academics and beautiful campus. The college has a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and offers a wide range of majors and academic opportunities.
2. Plattsburgh State University
Plattsburgh State University, located in Plattsburgh, New York, is another powerhouse in D3 women’s hockey. The team has won four national championships and has made 10 Final Four appearances in the past 12 years.
Plattsburgh State is also known for its strong academics and offers a wide range of majors and academic programs. The campus is located in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains and offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities.
3. Elmira College
Elmira College, located in Elmira, New York, has a long history of success in women’s hockey. The team has won three national championships and has made nine Final Four appearances in the past 10 years.
Elmira College is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the areas of business and nursing. The campus is located in a small town in upstate New York and offers a close-knit community for students.
4. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is a rising star in D3 women’s hockey. The team has made two Final Four appearances in the past three years.
Wisconsin-Eau Claire is known for its strong academic programs in the sciences and has a beautiful campus located on the banks of the Chippewa River.
5. Norwich University
Norwich University, located in Northfield, Vermont, is another top D3 women’s hockey program. The team has won two national championships and has made six Final Four appearances in the past eight years.
Norwich University is known for its strong military tradition and offers a range of academic programs in the sciences, engineering, and humanities. The campus is located in the beautiful Green Mountains of Vermont.
Conclusion
There are many fantastic D3 women’s hockey schools out there, and the five schools listed above are just the tip of the iceberg. When searching for the best D3 women’s hockey schools, remember to consider factors such as academics, location, facilities, coaching staff, and team culture. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect school to help you achieve your academic and athletic goals.