This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

[joehockey]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

On the Commitment Thread there was a change noted for Vermont of Meghan Huertas transferring to UMD that would be a loss for UVM based on her performance last year.

Vermont | Overall - 33 GP ( 8-21- 4 .303) | Conf Only - 21 GP ( 6-11- 4 .381) | Career
------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|----------------
## Player POS YR | GP G A PTS PEN/MIN PP SH GW GT | GP G A PTS PEN/MIN PP SH GW GT | GP G A PTS
16 Meghan Huertas F SO | 22 8 6 14 11/ 38 0 0 1 0 | 11 6 4 10 4/ 8 0 0 1 0 | 48 9 15 24

 

[DC78-82]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

On the Commitment Thread there was a change noted for Vermont of Meghan Huertas transferring to UMD that would be a loss for UVM based on her performance last year.

Vermont | Overall - 33 GP ( 8-21- 4 .303) | Conf Only - 21 GP ( 6-11- 4 .381) | Career
------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|----------------
## Player POS YR | GP G A PTS PEN/MIN PP SH GW GT | GP G A PTS PEN/MIN PP SH GW GT | GP G A PTS
16 Meghan Huertas F SO | 22 8 6 14 11/ 38 0 0 1 0 | 11 6 4 10 4/ 8 0 0 1 0 | 48 9 15 24

She was removed from the team prior to the end of last season, so it was a calculated loss. Good luck to her in Duluth. She is a strong player. I hope it's a good fit for her.

 

[Hux]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

Merrimack finally has a coach in Erin Whitten Hamlen.

Spoke with Coach Hamlen at the Beantown Women's Classic and she said that Merrimack will not be having a club team, but will move directly into D1. A decision will be made within the next few weeks whether they will begin play for the 2014-15 season, or the season after. She has also hired a first assistant, and that person will be announced shortly.

 

[TonyTheTiger20]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

Spoke with Coach Hamlen at the Beantown Women's Classic and she said that Merrimack will not be having a club team, but will move directly into D1. A decision will be made within the next few weeks whether they will begin play for the 2014-15 season, or the season after. She has also hired a first assistant, and that person will be announced shortly.

I feel like I've asked this question 100 times, but they are for certain playing in Hockey East, yes?

 

[Hux]

I feel like I've asked this question 100 times, but they are for certain playing in Hockey East, yes?

That they are.

 

[joehockey]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

Providence Friars 2013-14 Comments

The 2013-14 Friars Team will play in the New Schneider Arena beginning September 27th. Last season they had a never say never attitude and played hard to gain valuable experience. The Friars return 81% of goals and 80% of assists. The team has proven scoring, depth and experience at D and three goalies vying for the net.

They will have a roster of 24 players, an increase of 1 over last year, with 4 seniors, 7 juniors, 7 sophomores and 6 new/freshman (2 F and 4 D). The roster is made up of 12 forwards, 9 defense and 3 goaltenders. They have a chance to challenge again for HE Championship and perhaps beyond in the Olympic Year.


Senior Class – 4
Corine Buie is a top power forward. Rebecca Morse has offensive and defensive impact and Maggie Pendleton is a strong D player with strong shot from the point. Nina Riley was the Friar goalie down the playoff push at the end of last year.

F Corinne Buie 34 games, 15 G 11 A, -3, 7-14 PIM

D Rebecca Morse 31 games, 5 G 16 A, +1, 13-37 PIM
D Maggie Pendleton 35 games, 3 G 16 A, +3, 10-20 PIM

G Nina Riley 11 games, 3.86 GA, .871 SP

Junior Class – 7
Haley Frade is the top returning scorer. Brook Simpson had a strong sophomore year and goal production. Beth Hanrahan provided key goaling scoring in critical situation. Allison Micheletti is the fastest player on the roster. Steph Demars looks to build on an injury free season. Victoria Virtue provided strong performance in the final month of the season after an early season injury. Suzie Lundeen contributed as needed on D.
F Haley Frade 35 games, 13 G 18 A, +6, 5-10 PIM
F Brooke Simpson 35 games, 7 G 19 A, -7, 4-8 PIM
F Beth Hanrahan 35 games, 14 G 6 A, -4, 8-16 PIM
F Allison Micheletti 35 games, 3 G 7 A, -1, 1-2 PIM
F Stephanie Demars 32 games, 0 G 1 A, -3, 1-2 PIM (redshirt)

D Victoria Virtue 24 games, 2 G 6 A, -4, 9-18 PIM
D Suzie Lundeen 31 games, 0 G 2 A, -2, 3-6 PIM

Sophomore Class – 7
Molly Illikainen had a tremendous freshman year. Courtney Kukowski has great playmaking and finishing skills. Brittney Thunstrom has high end speed and great hockey sense. Lexi Slattery had a strong freshman year as a two way D. Lexi Romanchuk contributed on D and on special teams. Sarah Bryant carried the load much of last year in goal. Allie Morse appeared in 4 games.
F Molly Illikainen 34 games, 12 G 18 A, 0, 9-18 PIM
F Courtney Kukowski 35 games, 4 G 3 A, +1, 3-6 PIM
F Brittney Thunstrom 33 games, 0 G 5 A, 0, 6-12 PIM

D Lexi Slattery 35 games, 1 G, 18 A, +9, 24-48 PIM
D Lexi Romanchuk 35 games, 3 G 6 A, +1, 9-18

G Sarah Bryant 26 games, 3.15 GA, .882 SP
G Allie Morse 4 games, 3.57 GA, .812 SP

Freshman Class - 6
F Cassidy Carels, Pembina Valley/Canada U18 Bruxelles, MB
F Janine Weber, Vienna Sabres/Austrian National Team, Innsbruck, Austria (Post Grad)

D Kendra Goodrich, Rosemount HS, Rosemount, MN (HS teammate to Friar Alison Micheletti)
D, Liv Halvorson, Benilde St Margaret HS, Richfield, MN
D, Arianna Reid, Lakeville South, Lakeville, MN (her HS Coach was hockey legend Natalie Darwitz)
D, Ariana Buxman, Shattuck St. Mary’s, Glenwood Springs, CO

The Friars ended their 2012-13 campaign against a very good #4 Ranked BU Team in the Hockey East Championship Semifinals. The Terriers went on to face Minnesota in the National Championship Game. The Friars finished 5th in Hockey East regular season and posted and overall record of 15-16-5. The Team was young with 8 freshman, 7 sophomores (one redshirt) 4 juniors and 4 seniors but learned fast and competed similar to the 2011-12 edition.

The Team lost through graduation 3 forwards and 1 D. Graduating are Nicole Anderson (#1 TP 19 G, 16 A), Jesse Vella (#6 TP 13 G, 12 A), Emily Groth (#15 TP 0 G 6 A) and Cohen (#16 TP 0 G 5 A) representing 19% of goals and 20% of assists. Prentice Basten who appeared in 13 games as a freshman did not return.

In one less game the Team generated 118 goals (4th behind BC 154, NU 138, BU 127), 17 more an increase of 18% and an average of 3.2 vs 2.6 over 2011-12. On the Power Play the Team generated 23 goals which was an increase of 28% on 26 fewer attempts for a conversion of 14.7% (this was 5th with BC at 28.1%, NH 24.1%, NU 22.4%, BU 22.1%) over the prior year 9.9% rate.

The Team lowered penalties to 158 for 321 minutes versus 215 and 452 last year. The Team also improved on penalty kill from 13.5% to 23.4% this year.

Defensively the Team limited shots to 987 versus 1133 last year but yielded 45 more goals. The three goalies played over the season two freshman Bryant (3.15 GA .882 SP) and Morse (3.57 GA .812 SP); and one junior Riley (3.86 GA .871 SP). In addition the Team blocked 430 shots.

PC drew 6th in average HE attendance at 249 per game.

GO FRIARS!

 

[joehockey]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

What are people thinking about their Teams and how HE will shake out this year?

 

[TonyTheTiger20]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

What are people thinking about their Teams and how HE will shake out this year?

BC loses Carpenter but is really, really strong on depth and has Boyles back for her 5th year. They should be the class of Hockey East.

A weak recruiting class for BU really hurts on the Olympic year. They should really take a substantial step back. Not to mention, their record was, statistically speaking, quite 'lucky' given their goal differential last season (I mean from a mathematical standpoint, not a 'aw man they got lucky!' standpoint).

Northeastern relies on their Olympian much more than others so they'll drop a bit as well.

Seriously, there should be quite a cluster for 2nd place between BU, NU, UNH, PC. Maybe even Maine or Vermont can make some ground but they'll probably be a step behind like usual.

Not UConn though. Haha. God they are terrible.

 

[wwhyte]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

BC loses Carpenter but is really, really strong on depth and has Boyles back for her 5th year. They should be the class of Hockey East.

A weak recruiting class for BU really hurts on the Olympic year. They should really take a substantial step back. Not to mention, their record was, statistically speaking, quite 'lucky' given their goal differential last season (I mean from a mathematical standpoint, not a 'aw man they got lucky!' standpoint).

Northeastern relies on their Olympian much more than others so they'll drop a bit as well.

Seriously, there should be quite a cluster for 2nd place between BU, NU, UNH, PC. Maybe even Maine or Vermont can make some ground but they'll probably be a step behind like usual.

Not UConn though. Haha. God they are terrible.

Here are some stats, sorted by returning goals. The standout for me here is Providence, who not only are returning a high scoring capability but adding Janine Weber, who's won the EWHL twice with the Vienna Sabres. Northeastern's reliance on Coyne / Pickett / Llanes is pretty clear. I expect an easy win for the Eagles, BU and Providence battling for second, and a surprisingly tough year for NU. BU's pride and recent history will probably give them the edge in the race for second.

<table>
<tr><td>School<td>Goals 12-13<td>Returning Goals<td>Ratio
<tr><td>Boston College<td>159<td>101<td>0.635220126
<tr><td>Providence<td>114<td>82<td>0.719298246
<tr><td>Boston University<td>139<td>74<td>0.532374101
<tr><td>Maine<td>86<td>71<td>0.825581395
<tr><td>Northeastern<td>138<td>64<td>0.463768116
<tr><td>UNH<td>82<td>64<td>0.780487805
<tr><td>Vermont<td>71<td>60<td>0.845070423
<tr><td>Connecticut<td>58<td>53<td>0.913793103
</table>

(I should also say that when I tried to use similar stats from 2011-2012 and see how they would have predicted 2012-2013, I found nothing with an R^2 of better than 0.75 -- in other words, you may as well guess, though of course the BU 2011-2012 stats were skewed by Poulin being out injured).

No-one has a visibly outstanding recruiting class -- almost all the U18s in the East have gone across the Charles to Cambridge. Counting Weber, PC has two, BC has one (Capizzano), BU has one. I hear a lot of buzz about Anastos for BC but surprisingly little about Steph Lemieux, given her background. Only two and a half weeks till the exhibition matches start!

Skarupa, in fourth place in national scoring of all returning players, is HE player of the year presumptive barring accidents. I wouldn't be surprised to see her beat Alex Carpenter's program record 70 points this season... and I wouldn't be surprised to see Carpenter or Skarupa beat it again when Carpenter gets back from the Olympics.

 

[ARM]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

BC loses Carpenter ... God they are terrible.

That's about all I got out of TTT's post.

 

[DC78-82]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

BC loses Carpenter but is really, really strong on depth and has Boyles back for her 5th year. They should be the class of Hockey East.

A weak recruiting class for BU really hurts on the Olympic year. They should really take a substantial step back. Not to mention, their record was, statistically speaking, quite 'lucky' given their goal differential last season (I mean from a mathematical standpoint, not a 'aw man they got lucky!' standpoint).

Northeastern relies on their Olympian much more than others so they'll drop a bit as well.

Seriously, there should be quite a cluster for 2nd place between BU, NU, UNH, PC. Maybe even Maine or Vermont can make some ground but they'll probably be a step behind like usual.

Not UConn though. Haha. God they are terrible.

Vermont may surprise you. Second year under a coach that made some positive steps last year, a hard working group of veterans, strong recruiting class, and good goaltending.

U Conn may surprise you. They have a completely new coaching staff, which often gives a team a big boost, plus a few solid newcomers (including UNH's Vaattovaara's sister Viivi, who is in the Finish National system)

Providence will challenge your birds, as they return a strong core as well as a solid recruiting class. Goaltending will be the question mark there.

UNH has a solid core returning as well as a small, but solid rookie class. With 10 players returning for their second year at UNH, all of whom played big minutes in all situations, this team could surprise you too. Let's see if they've been blessed by the goal fairy.

Northeastern may surprise themselves with what they can do, but not just without #77. Pickett and Llanes are big graduation losses. They have speed and scoring potential, and a D core returning nearly intact,as well as a rested and seasoned Desjardin.

There may be a bigger battle for #1 than you want to admit. There is no room for error if you want to be at the top of HE in March, and BC seems to manage to drop points it shouldn't on paper. We'll see~

BU - and Maine - I have to agree with you, but BU does have some big scorers left after the Olympic vacuum ran them over.

 

[HockeyEast33]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

Vermont may surprise you. Second year under a coach that made some positive steps last year, a hard working group of veterans, strong recruiting class, and good goaltending.

U Conn may surprise you. They have a completely new coaching staff, which often gives a team a big boost, plus a few solid newcomers (including UNH's Vaattovaara's sister Viivi, who is in the Finish National system)

Providence will challenge your birds, as they return a strong core as well as a solid recruiting class. Goaltending will be the question mark there.

UNH has a solid core returning as well as a small, but solid rookie class. With 10 players returning for their second year at UNH, all of whom played big minutes in all situations, this team could surprise you too. Let's see if they've been blessed by the goal fairy.

Northeastern may surprise themselves with what they can do, but not just without #77. Pickett and Llanes are big graduation losses. They have speed and scoring potential, and a D core returning nearly intact,as well as a rested and seasoned Desjardin.

There may be a bigger battle for #1 than you want to admit. There is no room for error if you want to be at the top of HE in March, and BC seems to manage to drop points it shouldn't on paper. We'll see~

BU - and Maine - I have to agree with you, but BU does have some big scorers left after the Olympic vacuum ran them over.

- Don't agree on Vermont. Feel their recruiting class is LARGE, but not strong. Mostly folks who were contributors on their HS/club teams but not standouts (Litchfield is the exception). Salerno will help on defense - always capable of playing D1 but opted for Amherst instead. If you look back to last year, you will see that I predicted that Vermont would be better than people thought - disappointing. I do think that Plumer is a good coach and that they are on an upward trend, but don't think they are getting the major recruits that will get them winning more consistently/frequently.

- Be shocked if Connecticut is significantly competitive. New coaches, new players, lost some of their better players - way too much change to expect much out them this year. They will almost certainly be better than last year, but that probably means losing by less not actually winning more.

- Feel like UNH has potential, but probably won't realize much of it. While I have limited exposure to the program, the little I do have leads me to feel that the coaching and recruiting is not very strong there and it shows in their game performance.

- Providence to win it all this season. Just a feeling. BC second, BU third, NE fourth, everybody else finishing based on in season development and good ole dumb luck.

 

[joehockey]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

NCAA Women’s Hockey: 2013-2014 Hockey East Preview


BY GABRIELLA FUNDARO / IN WOMEN'S HOCKEY / SEPTEMBER 25, 2013
Boston College

Despite losing one of the top six scorers in the country in Alex Carpenter, the Eagles should boast a dominant offense, which really speaks to the strength of their forward group. Haley Skarupa and Emily Field will be the offensive catalysts; sophomore Dana Trivigno looks ready to step into a more prominent role; and Melissa Bizzari and Taylor Wasylk should be able to provide secondary scoring. They’re also bringing in a great crop of freshmen forwards in Kristyn Capizzano, Haley McLean, Andie Anastos, and Stephanie Lemieux, daughter of Pittsburgh Penguins legend and owner Mario Lemieux.


Haley Skarupa, Boston College Eagles (John Quackenbos/Boston College Athletics Communications)
BC’s defense likely regresses a bit with the graduation of Blake Bolden and Dru Burns. Emily Pfalzer in particular will be looked at to help replace the production of Bolden. Sophomores Kaliya Johnson and Lexi Bender should be able to up their games after solid rookie years; veterans Meagan Mangene and Jackie Young bring plenty of experience to the table and give the Eagles depth on the blue line. Corinne Boyles, who has developed into a very good goaltender over the last year or so, will be returning, and that should help Boston College with some potential issues defensively.

Key Player: Emily Pfalzer

The highly-skilled offensive defenseman will be counted on to lead this defensive corps at both ends of the ice; if she can help the Eagles successfully adjust after their defensive losses, they’ll be in business.

Outlook

They’re losing significant players at both skater positions but there are enough young, talented players on this roster for the team to adjust properly. Boston College is the favorite to win the conference and with great skill and depth both offensively and defensively, and very solid goaltending, that’s exactly what I expect from the Eagles.

Boston University

Easily the biggest loss for the Terriers is going to be forward Marie-Philip Poulin, who’s been one of the most valuable players in the country at both ends of the ice throughout her career, making her nearly impossible to replace. They’re also losing second- and third-leading scorers from 2012-2013, Jenelle Kohanchuk and Isabel Menard, and top-six forward Jill Cardella. But Sarah Lefort, Kayla Tutino, and Louise Warren are all legitimate threats, and sophomore Rebecca Russo should be able to produce a little more this season. Incoming freshmen Maddie Elia and Samantha Sunderland should also contribute to the top-nine.

It would be reasonable, at the very least, to expect issues for BU on the back-end. Number one defenseman Shannon Doyle will miss the season with a torn labrum, leaving the Terriers with little depth and almost no fluent puck-moving ability on the blue line. Shannon Stoneburgh and Kaleigh Fratkin will have to step up, but there’s really not much experience behind them. Rookie Sarah Steele may be able to fill a top-four spot right away, but headaches defensively are inevitable. Luckily, senior Kerrin Sperry has solidified herself as a very reliable goaltender, and she’ll without a doubt be counted on to turn out quality performances in net.

Key Player: Kerrin Sperry

She’s proven that she can be consistently good, and way better than that when need be, and the Terriers will need that from her this year with holes all over the defense.

Outlook

Boston University has found a way to get to the national championship game in two of the last three seasons, and though there are going to be many adjustments to be made, I think they’ll be good enough to finish second in the conference. It wouldn’t be hard, however, to imagine them falling to third or even fourth if they have too much trouble getting things sorted out, especially on defense.

Connecticut

Up front, the Huskies have two decent scorers in Kayla Campero and Michela Cava, but the production dries up after that. They certainly don’t have any really dynamic forwards, so goal-scoring will more than likely be an issue for them. They may get some help from their incoming class, specifically from Viivi Vaattovaara, who could surprise as a skill player.

Preventing goals will also pose some problems for UConn. They don’t really have one stand-out defenseman, and it’s going to be tough for the unit as a whole to match up against most teams. Sophomore goaltender Elaine Chuli has some potential, but I’m not sure she’s capable of consistently keeping the Huskies in games.

Key Player: Michela Cava

She led the team in goals as a freshman last season and will have to take control again for the offense to be somewhat successful.

Outlook

Connecticut just doesn’t have the talent at any position to compete with most of the teams in the conference. I’d expect another last place finish for the Huskies.

Maine

The Black Bears are probably going to have some scoring woes this season with the graduation of Brittany Dougherty. Jennifer Moore, Audra Richards, and Kayla Kaluzny are all mid-level scorers, but there’s not much of a supporting cast behind them. But they’re bringing in a nice freshman class with Karissa Kirkup, Eve Boissonneault, and Emilie Brigham, and they should be able to get some production out of those three.

Maine does have some quality on defense, though they lack in depth there too and will have to deal with the loss of Chloe Tinkler. Brooklyn Langlois is a severely underrated player, and incoming freshman Kristin Gilmour definitely has potential. Fellow rookie Jessica Valloton could also contribute right away. They’ve unfortunately got a huge hole in net, however, after the graduation of Brittany Ott. Meghann Treacy looks like the probable first-string goalie as of right now, but there are going to be some bumps in the road for the Black Bears in that regard.

Key Player: Brooklyn Langlois

She’s a great defensive player despite being only a sophomore and will have to step up in a big way this year and really anchor Maine’s blue line.

Outlook

There are too many issues up front and in goal here to ignore; despite having some talent on the back-end they just don’t really have the depth there to be a truly competitive blue line. They should be better than Connecticut, at least, and have a chance at maybe moving up one spot in the standings to sixth, but I would expect them to remain in seventh.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is losing two of their top three scorers in Kristina Lavoie and Kristine Horn, but they still have some veteran scorers in Hannah Armstrong, Jessica Hitchcock, and Arielle O’Neill, as well as sophomore Sara Carlson. Between those four players, they should be able to put together a decent top-six and a pretty competitive group of forwards overall.

Sophomore defenseman Alexis Crossley is actually the team’s leading scorer, and her offensive abilities and mobility will without a doubt come in handy this year. Classmate Megan Armstrong also had a pretty good freshman season and will likely be able to step up for the Wildcats. Junior goaltender Jenn Gilligan will have to improve a bit on her 2012-2013 numbers (2.29 goals against average, .909 save percentage) in order to help out a fairly young defensive corps.

Key Player: Jenn Gilligan

Her play this year will have an effect on the confidence of the team as a whole, which will definitely play a part in how much they can achieve.

Outlook

With less offensive depth and teams below them improving, I see New Hampshire slipping a bit in the standings this year. I expect them to finish either fifth or sixth, depending on how good Gilligan is and how strong the other teams in the conference are.

Northeastern

The Huskies are suffering undeniably huge losses up front, with super star Kendall Coyne off with the U.S. national team and Casey Pickett and Rachel Llanes now graduated. That leaves Brittany Esposito and Kelly Wallace as the team’s returning top scorers, and though good second-line players, I’m not sure they’ll be as comfortable in leading roles. Sophomore Paige Savage, however, could be ready to make the jump to true top-line producer, and Katie MacSorley, Claire Santostefano, and Lucie Povova should be able to provide depth scoring.

Northeastern’s defensemen tend to be pretty involved offensively, a trait that suits the fast-paced attacking style the team likes to play. Look for Maggie DiMasi and Colleen Murphy to lead the transition game from the blue line; sophomore Zoe Hickel also looks ready to take on more of those responsibilities. The Huskies also have two very solid defenders in Sonia St. Martin and Jordan Hampton, who as just a sophomore has plenty of untapped potential. Goaltender Chloe Desjardins proved at the end of last season that she can be the team’s go-to in net, but her overall consistency will have to improve this year.

Key Player: Jordan Hampton

If Hampton can establish herself as a mainstay in the top-four as a strong defensive presence, that Northeastern defense as a whole will be in very good shape, which will help the team tons.

Outlook

Even with Savage likely to produce more I just can’t see the Huskies replacing all of their scoring from last season, and that will really hurt them. The speed throughout their line-up makes them a tough team to skate with, but I don’t see them being as good as they were last year. I expect them to fall to fourth in the conference, but there’s enough talent left on the roster to keep them from dropping any further.

 

[joehockey]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

ARTICLE CONTINUED

Providence

Even with the loss of leading scorer Nicole Anderson and top-six forward Jessica Vella, the Friars’ offense looks to be in good shape. Sophomore Molly Illikainen will improve production-wise from her rookie total of 30 points in 35 games to help lead the offense; Haley Frade, Corinne Buie, Brooke Simpson, Beth Hanrahan, freshman Cassidy Carels, and transfer Janine Weber are all good top-six options as well.

Between Rebecca Morse, Maggie Pendleton, and Lexi Slattery, Providence will have a very mobile defense, perhaps the best in the conference if they can reach their potential. Lexi Romanchuk also has solid top-four ability, giving the Friars some depth on the back-end. The only big question for the team heading into the year is goaltending. Sarah Bryant eventually earned the starting job over Nina Riley last year, but she was sub-par, with an .882 save percentage and 3.15 goals against average. The defense will have less to adjust to this season, however, which will help limit scoring chances against.

Key Player: Sarah Bryant

Goaltending is the only real hinderance to Providence on paper and if Bryant can come in this season and establish herself as a true, consistent starter, it will help matters greatly.

Outlook

The Friars have a great opportunity this year to improve on last season and jump a few spots in the Hockey East standings. With very good top-six forwards and top-four defensemen, I expect Providence to climb to third, as long as they can get fairly decent goaltending.

Vermont

The Catamounts are in decent shape up front, with juniors Amanda Pelkey and Brittany Zuback likely to lead the offense again. The graduation of Erin Wente and Emily Walsh as well as the transfer of Meghan Huertas will hurt without a doubt, but they’ve still got two other top-six forwards in Klara Myren and Kellie Dineen, and freshmen Bridget Baker and Victoria Andreakos could potentially play scoring-line minutes right away.

Vermont’s defense isn’t going to wow anyone but they have some nice pieces on the blue line, too. Dayna Colang and Gina Repaci both had good freshman seasons statistically, with Repaci leading the defense in scoring with 15 points and Colang putting up 10. They should be even better at both ends of the ice as they mature as players. The Catamounts are also adding a veteran player in Ashley Salerno, who’s transferring from Amherst College for her senior year. With Roxanne Douville in net, they should have a good chance to win every night; she’s the best goaltender in the conference when it comes to game-stealing abilities.

Key Player: Amanda Pelkey

I expect Pelkey to have a break-out junior season and establish herself as a constant threat for opponents. If she can be that consistently dynamic player, opposing defenses will have their hands full with her, opening things up for Vermont’s offense as a whole.

Outlook

I think Pelkey’s emergence as a true star in the league, combined with consistency in goal from Douville, help to boost the Catamounts this year. They’re also going to be able to ice a full line-up, which they couldn’t do in 2012-2013; that in itself will make it easier for them to compete. It’s a bit of a stretch, but I see them improving enough to climb to the fifth spot in the standings.


Predicted Standings

Boston College
Boston University
Providence
Northeastern
Vermont
New Hampshire
Maine
Connecticut
Preseason All-Hockey East First Team

Haley Skarupa, Sophomore, Forward, Boston College

Sarah Lefort, Sophomore, Forward, Boston University

Molly Illikainen, Sophomore, Forward, Providence

Rebecca Morse, Senior, Defense, Providence

Emily Pfalzer, Junior, Defense, Boston College

Roxanne Douville, Senior, Goaltender, Vermont

Preseason All-Hockey East Second Team

Paige Savage, Sophomore, Forward, Northeastern

Amanda Pelkey, Junior, Forward, Vermont

Emily Field, Junior, Forward, Boston College

Alexis Crossley, Sophomore, Defense, New Hampshire

Maggie DiMasi, Senior, Defense, Northeastern

Kerrin Sperry, Senior, Goaltender, Boston University

Preseason Awards

Player of the Year: Haley Skarupa, Boston College

Defenseman of the Year: Rebecca Morse, Providence

Goaltender of the Year: Roxanne Douville, Vermont

Rookie of the Year: Andie Anastos, Boston College

 

[Hux]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

This week's awards:

ATHLETIC REPUBLIC CO-PLAYERS OF THE WEEK
#8 RACHEL FARREL, CONNECTICUT
(Junior Forward; Cheshire, Conn.)
Farrel scored both of UConn's goals against Union on Saturday afternoon at Freitas Ice Forum. She finised the day with five shots on goal and a +2 plus/minus rating. ATHLETIC REPUBLIC CO-PLAYER OF THE WEEK

#35 VILMA VAATTOVAARA, NEW HAMPSHIRE
(Sophomore Goaltender; Veikkola, Finland)
Vaattovaara recorded a career-high 41 saves (.976 save%) to backbone UNH to a 2-1 victory at St. Lawrence on Sept. 28. The only goal she allowed came with 1:23 remaining in regulation when SLU had a two-skater advantage (power play and extra attacker).

PRO AMBITIONS ROOKIE OF THE WEEK
#19 CASSANDRA VILGRAIN, NEW HAMPSHIRE
(Freshman Forward; Calgary, Alta.)
Vilgrain recorded one point with an assist in the two-game series at St. Lawrence. She set up the game-winning goal by tallying the primary assist on UNH's goal that produced a 2-0 lead just 79 seconds after the 'Cats broke a scoreless tie in the third period. Vilgrain had a +1 rating in that game (and the series).

WHEA DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
#29 ELAINE CHULI, CONNECTICUT
(Sophomore Goaltender; Waterford, Ont.)
Chuli stopped 43-of-46 shots (.935 save%) in UConn's loss to Union on Saturday afternoon, which included 22 saves in the opening frame.

WHEA TEAM OF THE WEEK
NEW HAMPSHIRE WILDCATS
The Wildcats split the two-game road series with ECAC opponent St. Lawrence at Appleton Arena. UNH opened the season with a 4-2 loss on Friday and rebounded with a 2-1 victory on Saturday afternoon.

 

[joehockey]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

Arlan reviews and predicts Hockey East

http://www.uscho.com/2013/09/30/boston-college-expected-on-top-in-hockey-east

 

[wwhyte]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

Arlan reviews and predicts Hockey East

http://www.uscho.com/2013/09/30/boston-college-expected-on-top-in-hockey-east

joe, you were very modest not to headline the predicted second place finish for the Friars. That November 1st Eagles/Friars matchup should be a game to look forward to -- the first really tough game the Eagles have of the season, seven games in.

Talking of tough games, I also admire the way the Friars have set up their OOC schedule with both Mercyhurst (10/12-13) and Clarkson (11/15-16). A split against Mercyhurst would be a great early-season boost for both morale and the pairwise. I may use one of the Mercyhurst games as an excuse to check out Schneider. You have to ask, though, if Providence can set up games of that quality, why can't BC?

 

[joehockey]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

joe, you were very modest not to headline the predicted second place finish for the Friars. That November 1st Eagles/Friars matchup should be a game to look forward to -- the first really tough game the Eagles have of the season, seven games in.

Talking of tough games, I also admire the way the Friars have set up their OOC schedule with both Mercyhurst (10/12-13) and Clarkson (11/15-16). A split against Mercyhurst would be a great early-season boost for both morale and the pairwise. I may use one of the Mercyhurst games as an excuse to check out Schneider. You have to ask, though, if Providence can set up games of that quality, why can't BC?

LOL! I am trying to be more measured in my final year on the Board!

Measured aside I love the New Schneider and think you all should experience - games below should be great reason to check out. HUX you will love the better lighting!

I did list the following on Providence thread - match ups I am going to attend and cheer for Friars, I love the early season tests and believe it will help them.

So "Special Season" first ranking poll and the Friars received one vote....its a start.

The schedule shows some really fun match ups to get on the calendar to cheer the Friars on to success. Lots of great hockey ahead for Friar Nation!

http://www.usahockey.com/page/show/8...ollege-hockey#

Rank School 2012-13 Final Rank
1. Minnesota, 179 (18) 1
2. Boston College, 160 (1) 3
3. Clarkson, 106 7
4. Boston University, 102 2
5. North Dakota, 100 5
6. Cornell, 96 4
7. Wisconsin, 94 10
8. Mercyhurst, 70 6
9. Harvard, 41 8
10. Northeastern, 20 9

Others receiving votes: Minnesota Duluth, 8; Darmouth, 4; Ohio State, 4; St. Lawrence, 3; Quinnipiac, 2; Providence, 1.

Mark the Calendar:

Big Test 1 - #8 Mercyhurst - Home Series at Providence New Schneider Arena - 10/12/13 @ 2:00 p.m. & 10/13/13 1:00 p.m.

Big Test 2 - #10 Northeasten Home/Home Series - PC at Northeastern (pick best High Def Streaming or Best Classic Arena in Women's Hockey) Boston, MA 7:00 p.m. & 10/26/13 Northeastern @ Providence New Schneider Arena 3:00 p.m.

Big Test 3 - #2 Boston College Home/Home Series - 11/01/13 Boston College @ Providence New Schneider Arena 7:00 p.m. &
11/03/13 Friars @ Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 2:00 p.m.

Big Test 4 - #3 Clarkson (but preseason ECAC #1 pick) Friars pack up for BIG ROAD TRIP to Postdam NY 11/15/13 at 3:00 p.m. & 11/16/13 at 3:00 p.m.

GO FRIARS!

 

[Hux]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

LOL! I am trying to be more measured in my final year on the Board!

Joe, since you are the only one who posts for Providence you will be required to continue posting regardless of whether your daughter is on the team or not. (either that or you will have to recruit others to do some Friar watching and posting.)

 

[joehockey]

Re: This Week In Hockey East, Volume II: Now Even Hockey East-ier!

Joe, since you are the only one who posts for Providence you will be required to continue posting regardless of whether your daughter is on the team or not. (either that or you will have to recruit others to do some Friar watching and posting.)

After this season we will find new and better blood to carry forward the Friar Tradition!