Opinion: QU Women’s Ice Hockey is Legit

Photos: QU Athletics

Alexandria Parsons

As Quinnipiac’s women’s hockey team takes the ice in the 2020-21 season, the team’s hard work and resilience proves they have the potential to make an extraordinary run. Currently possessing a 5-2 record, the Bobcats have been dominant against their opponents, compiling 38 goals and 346 shots in their contests. It is nonetheless anticipated that the Bobcats have a remarkable season highlighting their competitive energy, reliant teamwork, and strategic gameplay.

Although competing in a tough ECAC Hockey conference, Quinnipiac has consistently capitalized on every opportunity to win. Quinnipiac defeated Sacred Heart twice 6-1 on Dec. 13th and 9-1 on Dec. 14th. The Bobcats latest triumph was against LIU in which they not only defeated the team but shutout the sharks in all three games. Quinnipiac won 6-0 on Jan. 3rd, 5-0 on Jan. 16th, and 11-0 on Jan. 17th. Overall, the team has been playing aggressively, which is pivotal towards winning the conference title. With plenty more games ahead, it is undeniable that Quinnipiac will be a challenging team to face.

Needless to say, it is evident every player has contributed a strong performance towards each game. The offense alone demonstrated 6 goals scored and 68 shots on goal just in their first game of the season. Recognizing senior forward, Renee Saltness as she was named one of the Hockey Commissioner’s Association (HCA) Players of the Month in December of 2020. Saltness has led the team with 11 points consisting of 4 goals and 7 assists on the season. Following that, Junior forward Lexie Adzija has contributed 12 points to the team and senior forward Taylor House has contributed 8 points. Cumulatively, the offense’s tendencies to score comes from their unified talent and determination to win.

With last year’s team MVP and star goaltender Abbie Ives graduating, this year’s goalies dealt with heavy expectations. Though it’s been a small sample size, they’ve exceeded all of them to this point – junior goaltender Logan Angers had a total of 41 saves over the span of 256 minutes played. Also goaltenders Catie Boudiette and Allie Kelley were able to protect the net not allowing a goal thus far. The team’s defense has made life a lot easier for the goaltenders too, and they have been a major component towards the team’s hot start, as they’ve held opposition to under two goals and just over 20 shots per game.

While the Bobcats have a tough upcoming schedule to face, the team appears more than ready. High expectations arise from head coach Cassandra Turner as she enters her sixth year coaching the women’s hockey program. It is clear the team holds incredible talent and growth towards the future of the program. With confidence in the coaching staff and players, the Bobcats undoubtedly have the ability to take on many more regular season victories and the potential to raise a banner or two.