Michigan State Women's Ice Hockey
Michigan State University might be best known for its storied football program, but its women's ice hockey team is quietly building a legacy of its own. In the heart of the Midwest, the Spartans are making strides on the ice, and they're quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the world of college hockey.
A Brief History of the Program
The women's ice hockey program at Michigan State University got its start in 1999, when the team played its first season as a member of the Central Collegiate Women's Hockey Association (CCWHA). After a few years of building the program from scratch, the Spartans joined the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) in 2015. The WCHA is widely regarded as one of the strongest conferences in college hockey, and the move was a clear sign that Michigan State was serious about taking its program to the next level.
Roster and Coaching Staff
The current roster of the Michigan State women's ice hockey team is made up of around 25 players, including forwards, defensemen, and goaltenders. The team is coached by Jeff VandenBerg, who has been with the program since 2016. VandenBerg brings years of coaching experience to the table, and he's helped lead the Spartans to some impressive victories over the past few years.
Season-by-Season Performance
The Michigan State women's ice hockey team has had its share of ups and downs over the years, but the program seems to be on an upward trajectory overall. In recent seasons, the Spartans have been competitive against some of the best teams in the country. In the 2019-2020 season, for example, the team finished with a record of 10-20-5, but they managed to upset some higher-ranked opponents along the way. With each passing season, the Spartans seem to be getting stronger, and they're quickly becoming a team to watch in the world of college hockey.
Facilities
The Michigan State women's ice hockey team calls Munn Ice Arena home. Munn Ice Arena is a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 1974. The arena can seat over 6,000 people, and it has hosted some of the biggest games in the history of Michigan State hockey. The arena includes locker rooms for both the home and visiting teams, as well as training facilities, practice rinks, and more. It's an impressive facility, and it's clear that Michigan State takes its women's ice hockey program seriously.
Conclusion
All in all, the Michigan State women's ice hockey program is making waves in the world of college hockey. With a talented roster, a seasoned coaching staff, and an impressive facility to call home, the Spartans are well-positioned to continue building a legacy of their own. If you're a fan of college hockey, keep an eye on Michigan State—they're a team to watch in the coming seasons.
