Ohio State Men's Club Hockey
Ohio State University is home to a variety of sports teams, but one that often stands out is the Ohio State Men's Club Hockey team. Comprised of students who are passionate about hockey, this team has proven itself to be a prominent force in college hockey over the years. From its beginning as a club sport to its current status as a member of the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA), this team has a rich history worth exploring.
A Brief History
The Ohio State Men's Club Hockey team began in the 1960s as a club sport. At the time, it was not affiliated with any national collegiate athletic association. However, the team quickly gained popularity and success on campus. In 1978, it became a member of the ACHA, which allowed it to compete against other college club teams across the country. Since then, the team has consistently been a top performer in the ACHA, winning numerous regional and national championships.
Team Structure and Culture
The Ohio State Men's Club Hockey team is made up of undergraduate and graduate students who are full-time students at the university. Tryouts for the team are held every fall, and the roster is typically composed of 25-30 players. The team practices several times a week and plays games on weekends, traveling all over the country to compete against other ACHA teams. The team's culture is one of hard work, dedication, and a deep love for the sport of hockey. The players are all driven to succeed both on and off the ice, and there is a strong sense of camaraderie among them.
Key Players and Coaches
Over the years, the Ohio State Men's Club Hockey team has had many talented players and coaches. One of its most well-known players is Ryan Kesler, who played for the team in the early 2000s before going on to play in the NHL. Other notable players include Zac Dalpe, Matt Bartkowski, and Drew Brevig. The team's current head coach is Steve Rohlik, who has been with the team since 2016. Rohlik is a former Buckeye himself, having played for the Ohio State varsity hockey team in the 1980s.
Notable Achievements
The Ohio State Men's Club Hockey team has had many notable achievements over the years. Some of its most impressive accomplishments include:
- Winning the ACHA national championship in 2003, 2005, and 2007
- Winning the Great Lakes Collegiate Hockey League championship multiple times
- Producing several NHL players, including Ryan Kesler, Matt Bartkowski, and Zac Dalpe
The Future of Ohio State Men's Club Hockey
The future of the Ohio State Men's Club Hockey team looks bright. With a strong coaching staff, dedicated players, and a supportive fan base, the team is poised to continue its winning ways. In addition, Ohio State University is currently exploring the possibility of starting a varsity men's hockey program, which would provide even more opportunities for hockey players at the university.
Final Thoughts
The Ohio State Men's Club Hockey team is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a love for the sport of hockey. Over the years, the team has consistently been one of the top performers in college club hockey, and it shows no signs of slowing down. If you're looking for a team to support, be sure to check out the Ohio State Men's Club Hockey team. You won't be disappointed!
