Liberty University Men's D1 Hockey
Hockey is a sport that has been around for centuries, but it was in the early 20th century that it started gaining popularity in the United States. From then on, hockey has continued to capture the hearts of millions of Americans, and Liberty University Men's D1 Hockey team is no exception. If you are a hockey enthusiast or just a sports fan looking for the next big thing, then keep reading to learn about this exceptional team.
History of Liberty University Men's D1 Hockey
Liberty University Men's D1 Hockey team was established in 1985 and has since then been a powerhouse in the National Collegiate Club Hockey Association (NCCHA). The team prides itself on its strong Christian beliefs, which are evident in its players' commitment to excellence, hard work, and discipline.
Over the years, the team has consistently shown its mettle on the ice, winning several championships and accolades. In the 2019-2020 season, the Flames finished with a stellar 31-5 record and ranked #2 in the nation, making it to the ACHA National Tournament in Dallas. Unfortunately, the tournament was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the Flames' achievement was undeniable.
Key Players
One of the reasons for the Liberty Flames' success is the calibre of players on the team. The Flames have players from all over the United States, as well as several from Canada and Europe. The team's captain, Josh Fricks, is a forward from Virginia, who has been a standout performer over the years. He was awarded the ACHA Player of the Year in 2019-2020, and NCCHA Player of the Year in 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 seasons.
Other key players on the team include defensemen Chaydan Lauber from Minnesota, Hunter Brackett from Texas and Basil Reynolds from the United Kingdom. All of these players have been instrumental in the Flames' success over the years and continue to play a vital role in the team's future.
Head Coach Kirk Handy
Behind every great team is a great coach, and the Flames have one of the best in the business. Head Coach Kirk Handy has been leading the Flames for the past 21 seasons and has led them to multiple championships and awards. Under his leadership, the Flames have become one of the top teams in the NCCHA and a force to be reckoned with on the national stage.
Coach Handy is known for his exceptional coaching skills, leadership, and mentorship. He is highly respected by his players and has developed a culture of hard work and excellence within the team. This has been evident in the Flames' continued success over the years.
Facilities
One of the reasons why Liberty University Men's D1 Hockey team has been able to attract top talent is because of the excellent facilities that the university provides. The Flames train and play their home games at the LaHaye Ice Center, which boasts two NHL-sized rinks, seating for 4,000 fans, and a state-of-the-art scoreboard and sound system. The facility also includes locker rooms, equipment rooms and training rooms, making it an ideal place for the Flames to train and prepare for games.
Conclusion
Liberty University Men's D1 Hockey team is one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NCCHA. With a rich history, exceptional players, a world-class coach and outstanding facilities, the Flames are poised to continue their success in the upcoming season. If you're a hockey enthusiast or just looking for a great sports team to support, make sure to keep an eye on the Flames.
