University Of St Thomas Women's Hockey
The University of St Thomas is a private, Catholic liberal arts university located in St Paul, Minnesota. The university is known for its exceptional educational programs and its excellent athletic programs. One of the most successful athletic teams at St Thomas is the women's ice hockey team. The program has a rich history of success and has become one of the top programs in the country. In this article, we will take a closer look at the University of St Thomas women's hockey team, its history, and its success.
The History of Women's Hockey at the University of St Thomas
The women's ice hockey program at the University of St Thomas was started in 1998. The program started as a club team and played at the Division II level. In 2001, the team moved up to the Division III level and became a varsity program. Since then, the program has had a remarkable run of success. The team has won the MIAC conference championship thirteen times and has made thirteen appearances in the NCAA Division III tournament.
The Coaching Staff
The coaching staff at the University of St Thomas women's hockey program is one of the best in the country. The head coach, Joel Johnson, has been with the program since its inception in 1998. Johnson has led the team to all of its conference championships and has been named the MIAC Coach of the Year six times. He was also an assistant coach for the US Women's National Team that won the gold medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics. The other coaches on the staff are also highly experienced and are dedicated to the success of the program.
The Players
The players on the University of St Thomas women's hockey team are some of the best in the country. The team has consistently recruited top talent and has built a reputation as a program that produces successful players. Many players from the program have gone on to play professionally, and some have even represented their countries in international play. The team is known for its strong work ethic and dedication to the game.
The Facilities
The University of St Thomas has some of the best athletic facilities in the country, and the women's ice hockey team is no exception. The team plays its home games at the St Thomas Ice Arena, which is a state-of-the-art facility with seating for 1,200 fans. The arena also has a separate practice rink and a weight room that is specifically designed for hockey players. The team also has access to the university's other athletic facilities, including a swimming pool, a track, and a strength and conditioning center.
The Future of University of St Thomas Women's Hockey
The future of the University of St Thomas women's hockey program looks bright. The team has a strong recruiting class and is poised to make another run at the conference championship and the national championship. The program has built a reputation for excellence in all areas, and this success is sure to continue for years to come.
Conclusion
The University of St Thomas women's hockey program is a shining example of excellence both on and off the ice. The program has a long history of success, and this success is due to the hard work and dedication of the coaching staff, the players, and the university as a whole. The program is sure to continue its success in the future, and it will continue to be a source of pride for the St Thomas community.