UNH Men’s Hockey 22-23: the start of something new, or more of the same?

[HockeyRef]

My assertion is that we are very close to the tipping point of the attendance taking a huge nose dive. This is not something that a road win against Holy Cross is going to fix either. Given that a good number of people who go to home games likely don't pay a lot of attention to what happens outside of the Whitt. I would personally imagine that seeing attendance split in half would be a bigger morale crusher than hearing a handful of fans calling for your coaches job. If it gets to the point that you can hear the calls ringing through the arena then maybe there is something to be said there. The ones this week were a small number of people that I doubt anyone on the bench heard.

Your point about attendance is very well taken and huge!!! I would think playing to a near empty arena (didn't look like many at Providence from what I could see watching their game online last night?) and I think we've done pretty well considering (save Tuesday). I mean not stellar attendance mind ya!

OMMMMMMM.....(this is for you Darius)

 

[NCAA watcher]

If you see the college experience otherwise, those folks can toddle off to their safe spaces and take up yoga ...

Hey, my daughter is taking yoga for credit this semester, but I also talked her into a self-defense class taught by a US Olympian in Judo, so its kind of a wash

 

[Darius]

Hey, my daughter is taking yoga for credit this semester, but I also talked her into a self-defense class taught by a US Olympian in Judo, so its kind of a wash

A wash? More like a +2. In any given situation she can use a calm, mindful approach to achieve a peaceful harmonious outcome. If things don’t work out she can resort to violence.

 

[NCAA watcher]

There is a difference between being taught by an Olympian and actually having any skills. I do hope to recreate my favorite scene ever from the Americans

(for those who never watched the series -- WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU- ITS THE BEST SERIES EVER. But father is a spy whose daughter has learned some fighting skills from her mother, but has a heightened sense of her abilities)

​​​​​​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylB5EXnT3SA&t=7s

 

[Chuck Murray]

There is a difference between being taught by an Olympian and actually having any skills. I do hope to recreate my favorite scene ever from the Americans

(for those who never watched the series -- WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU- ITS THE BEST SERIES EVER. But father is a spy whose daughter has learned some fighting skills from her mother, but has a heightened sense of her abilities)

​​​​​​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylB5EXnT3SA&t=7s

LOL just a little bit, eh?? ;-)

Football 'Cats make the tourney, facing Lombardi U. from The Bronx (a/k/a Fordham)!

 

[HockeyRef]

Whoa awful weather and field conditions for this soccer game. Tied at the moment around 13 mins left when its over Chuck please come on and give us your thoughts...

End of first OT: FIU 2 UNH 1 (didn't know they play 2 ot...)

Wow well that was quite amazing watching all.of those PK's...sorry it had to end that way but hats off none the less. Chuck over to you for final synopsis?

Ps UNHs Chris Pinkham is the nephew of.legemdary Gilford High School's Dave Pinkham...his dad is George Pinkham who coaches Bow High School. Many incredible playoff games between these two brothers. Was lucky to have taught with Dave for 31 years. Both men still coach/ Dave won his 17th State title this past season.

 

[Chuck Murray]

Epic game with a disappointing ending ... as 'Ref alluded to, the teams went through regulation tied at 1-1, with FIU scoring early in the match, and UNH leveling about midway through the second half. The NCAA plays two 10 minute extra time periods - changing sides midway through - and unlike in hockey, it's not a "golden goal" situation, so you play through the entire 20 minutes (FIFA and most pro leagues play two 15 minute extra time periods, again no "golden goal" format) to see if you have a winner. FIU scores midway through the first ET period, but UNH sends it to penalty kicks when Rory O'Driscoll converted on a free kick with about 2 minutes left.

In penalties ... both teams miss their first shots, then both string together 4 in a row to get to the brace of 5 PK's still tied at 4-4. After that, the rounds are each "stand alone" so then the teams go another 4 rounds of matching goal-for-goal, getting up to a pretty impressive (considering the pressure and all) 8 in a row apiece, and in Round 10, both teams miss. Sheesh. Round 11, grad student O'Driscoll nets a second PK since they've gone through the entire 10 field players rotation - and arguably ends up netting a unique sort of "hat trick" in his career finale, but FIU matches it. In Round 12, UNH misses, FIU converts, and after 3 hours or so, *suddenly* it's all over.

FIU 2 (10):2 (9) UNH

 

[HockeyRef]

Epic game with a disappointing ending ... as 'Ref alluded to, the teams went through regulation tied at 1-1, with FIU scoring early in the match, and UNH leveling about midway through the second half. The NCAA plays two 10 minute extra time periods - changing sides midway through - and unlike in hockey, it's not a "golden goal" situation, so you play through the entire 20 minutes (FIFA and most pro leagues play two 15 minute extra time periods, again no "golden goal" format) to see if you have a winner. FIU scores midway through the first ET period, but UNH sends it to penalty kicks when Rory O'Driscoll converted on a free kick with about 2 minutes left.

In penalties ... both teams miss their first shots, then both string together 4 in a row to get to the brace of 5 PK's still tied at 4-4. After that, the rounds are each "stand alone" so then the teams go another 4 rounds of matching goal-for-goal, getting up to a pretty impressive (considering the pressure and all) 8 in a row apiece, and in Round 10, both teams miss. Sheesh. Round 11, grad student O'Driscoll nets a second PK since they've gone through the entire 10 field players rotation - and arguably ends up netting a unique sort of "hat trick" in his career finale, but FIU matches it. In Round 12, UNH misses, FIU converts, and after 3 hours or so, *suddenly* it's all over.

FIU 2 (10):2 (9) UNH

some complaining that the ncaa should have not played due to conditions but both teams had to deal with that. I see UVM advanced…great season for UNH finishing at 15-4 ish They’ll be back. Onto football and hopefully breaking out of a losing streak with our hockey ‘Cats.

How ‘bout those BRUINS

 

[norbert]

Coach Souza from last night's presser courtesy of Andrew Gardner/UNH journo:

UNH Head Coach Mike Souza after the loss last night: “I understand that the expectation is to win and I’m not going to sit here and tell you that things are great, they’re not. I want them to be and as long as I’m the coach I’m going to work my *** off”

And from Ryan Black who had a nice goal:

UNH Senior forward Ryan Black after the loss last night: “We know we’re there, we know we’re capable and the demeanor in the locker room isn’t necessarily down. As you guys saw in that first period we know what we’re capable of against a good top 20 team in UMass”

I for one, appreciate the honesty here. Of course he understands what's expected, and from day one he has always voiced his own involvement with needing to 'coach that better' (in referring to the powerplay or what ever). I hope he recognizes the limitations of the talent and makes the most of it, rather than expecting things that might not be possible? That lends itself to alot of stress for everyone.

Ps...congratulations football enthusiasts!

It is nice he understands his job is to win. I need to find the interview because if that is all he said this is sad. There needs to be ownership on what is going on. Currently sitting with a career coaching record of 50-73-18 (.418). Excluding this year it is 47-63-17 which equates to $20,425.53 per win. Let that sink in, every time we put a puck in the net more times than the other team, it cost's UNH $20K. This number will only go up when this season thankfully comes to an end.

 

[norbert]

It was Ericsson who took the contact from the UMass forward along the boards late in second period, I think, but the refs rejected MS7’s plea for a major against UMass, to which I along with the NESN broadcasters, who showed the hit over and over, did not disagree. It was late in the first period when Eriksson took his 2-min elbowing penalty.

Watching games on NESN, I do not see what communication goes on during the game on the bench, but when I attended games in person I never thought that MS7’s former boss made good in-game adjustments between periods either, even back in our hay day. Of course, the recruiting was much better back then. No fault of our players’ efforts now, but they are simply playing out of their league. Just looking at our recruiting thread, that result has been obvious for years.

edit: Cy LeClerc was 15-9 in FOW against UMass, which is good at any level of hockey. UNH overall on season is 371-405 in FOW, but cannot find individual season FOW stats.

This challenge which I have seen twice now, is a terrible coaching decision. You lose your time out which could be more beneficial when there is a goal needing review. Attended the BU/NU game Saturday and BU did the same thing. Later in the game NU scored a goal that was redirected in front that could have been close to a high stick, but since they blew the TO on a challenge, they could not. Luckily they won the game but easily could have cost them.

 

[norbert]

I think (and I can be guilty of this) that we often forget that these players, even though they are in a D1 hockey program, receive scholarships, are still student athletes, not NHL players. They want and deserve respect and support from their fans. I'm not thrilled about how its going any more than the rest and while I agree a coaching change is in order if things do not improve (and fast) it has to hurt to hear their coach called out with 'Fire Souza' as they skate off the ice trying to process their most recent shortcomings. I'm not going to games for the coach; never have, never will....I get it that the 'fire souza' is not directed at them and hope they know that.

You've got a point there Felger that I had not considered when you mention they could internalize this as their fault...again, good food for thought. Remember they came here because they believed in the coach and what UNH could potentially offer them in more than just on the ice. Giving them the thought that they made the wrong choice...etc...would be unfortunate, but I also think they could sort that piece? That said, you can't control the environment, and, like it or not, to use an overused phrase, 'it comes with the territory'.

And...after all of that said, I'd hate to see a completely empty 'Whitt...that would be awful if every games attendance was like this past Tuesdays...

Ps...great D1 fh game UNC completes the undefeated season, while the 'cardiac 'Cats (where have we heard this) Northwestern made it interesting tying the game with under 2 mins to go...2022 field hockey season is officially over!

Trying to catch up on all these and the "fire Souza" posts so HR this isn't directed at you, just the last post that has many of the highlights.

It has to be understood that this is a results-oriented position, and they are not there ($20K per win). He is a public figure and expediting the sinking of the once flagship program at UNH, with all of that I don't think it is that harsh for fans to express their feelings. If there were direct attacks at his family, ie your dad **cks, then yes that would cross a line. It is a reality of a tired and diminishing fan base that wants change.

I have seen posts about emailing the AD ect, it won't matter. It will be ignored and probably garner a generic response to the effect of, "We understand the frustration and lack of success, but will evaluate and put ourselves into a position to win" or some other BS like that. You don't want to be booed/have your name chanted, then win.

As for the players hearing "Fire Souza", I don't think it bothers them at all, and probably would be welcomed. He has lost this team and the locker room. I truly believe that the players have not quit on the ice (just lack talent) but have quit on their coach. While some is talent related the lack of execution and at times when it appears chaotic on the ice is the players just playing. I would not be surprised to see a large number of current players entering the portal if there is not major change at the end of the season.

 

[Dan]

UNHs Chris Pinkham is the nephew of legendary Gilford High School's Dave Pinkham...Dave won his 17th State title this past season.

You are likely aware that Dave Pinkham and Gilford High School once set - and still hold - the longest ever boys soccer winning streak in the country (somewhere in the neighborhood of 10 years unbeaten). What you may not know, that the streak was snapped in the Fall of 1997 NHIAA Quarterfinals by Coe-Brown Northwood Academy and a scrappy, junior left back named, yours truly. After a scoreless game and a pair of scoreless overtimes, we won 5-4 on PK's and advanced to the NH Final Four for the second straight season (Gilford had beaten us in the Championship Game the year before). We beat Pelham 1-0 (on another PK), but eventually lost to Raymond, 1-0, in the title game. Always a bridesmaid - I was also a state runner-up in Baseball during my HS days...

The next year we moved from Class M to Class I - and began a rivalry with our closest competitor, Marc Hubbard's Oyster River Bobcats.

 

[Dan]

There is certainly a fine line between openly disrespectful behavior - particularly directed at a family member - and valid coaching criticism. That said, Souza knows exactly what he signed up for and he has been paid generously (millions of dollars) to lead this program. I am sure he would bask in the attention if he was treated like a king at The Whitt or in the media, or if his children were the most popular kids at recess due to their father's success. This is simply the other side of the coin, and if he doesn't enjoy it than he does not need to be paid handsomely to live in the limelight...

Quite simply put, he has not done his job well in a number of areas. This program means a great deal to the athletic department, the university, the state, the region and many in the fan base. He has a responsibility to meet and he has not done so. There is also a fine line between openly disrespectful behavior and Souza/The U pitching the company line that he is above reproach and job accountability because it's mean and he's human with a family. That's how the previous AD handled coaches - specifically hockey coaches.

I don't find spoken protest in the fan base crossing the line. And I meant to voice Norbert's recent thought, but was too exhausted to do so last night. When coaches are not winning, players don't always feel loyalty and concern for them. I'd imagine there is far worse being said by at least a segment of players and parents (behind closed doors) - who don't believe they're getting him fired, but expressly DO NOT buy into his ability to maximize their talent or put players/the team in a position to succeed. I doubt yelling for the coach to be fired effects them much - and, for me, its much more welcome than booing (which would be indirect and hard to decipher targeting of players or coaches), for example...

The athletic department NEEDS to get the message and the only way they'll get any sort of message is if something uncomfortable occurs - angry voices or dwindling attendance. I don't support open disrespect, I do support sending that message. The program is on life support.

 

[deltabravo62]

There is certainly a fine line between openly disrespectful behavior - particularly directed at a family member - and valid coaching criticism. That said, Souza knows exactly what he signed up for and he has been paid generously (millions of dollars) to lead this program. I am sure he would bask in the attention if he was treated like a king at The Whitt or in the media, or if his children were the most popular kids at recess due to their father's success. This is simply the other side of the coin, and if he doesn't enjoy it than he does not need to be paid handsomely to live in the limelight...

Quite simply put, he has not done his job well in a number of areas. This program means a great deal to the athletic department, the university, the state, the region and many in the fan base. He has a responsibility to meet and he has not done so. There is also a fine line between openly disrespectful behavior and Souza/The U pitching the company line that he is above reproach and job accountability because it's mean and he's human with a family. That's how the previous AD handled coaches - specifically hockey coaches.

I don't find spoken protest in the fan base crossing the line. And I meant to voice Norbert's recent thought, but was too exhausted to do so last night. When coaches are not winning, players don't always feel loyalty and concern for them. I'd imagine there is far worse being said by at least a segment of players and parents (behind closed doors) - who don't believe they're getting him fired, but expressly DO NOT buy into his ability to maximize their talent or put players/the team in a position to succeed. I doubt yelling for the coach to be fired effects them much - and, for me, its much more welcome than booing (which would be indirect and hard to decipher targeting of players or coaches), for example...

The athletic department NEEDS to get the message and the only way they'll get any sort of message is if something uncomfortable occurs - angry voices or dwindling attendance. I don't support open disrespect, I do support sending that message. The program is on life support.

​​​​​​Couldn't have summed it up much better than that Dan.

 

[HockeyRef]

You are likely aware that Dave Pinkham and Gilford High School once set - and still hold - the longest ever boys soccer winning streak in the country (somewhere in the neighborhood of 10 years unbeaten). What you may not know, that the streak was snapped in the Fall of 1997 NHIAA Quarterfinals by Coe-Brown Northwood Academy and a scrappy, junior left back named, yours truly. After a scoreless game and a pair of scoreless overtimes, we won 5-4 on PK's and advanced to the NH Final Four for the second straight season (Gilford had beaten us in the Championship Game the year before). We beat Pelham 1-0 (on another PK), but eventually lost to Raymond, 1-0, in the title game. Always a bridesmaid - I was also a state runner-up in Baseball during my HS days...

The next year we moved from Class M to Class I - and began a rivalry with our closest competitor, Marc Hubbard's Oyster River Bobcats.

Wow Dan no sh*t that was you!?!! I actually showed up for that game late (or so I thought) because I was officiating a college game at NEC..was surprised the game was still going on well afterall it was the Golden Eagles playing...Anyway! Pks were about to start...and saw it all.

Was impressed the Coe Brown team was very respectful as they had to know...what they had just accomplished. I can still see Dave and his asst coach walking out to get his goalie who was Justin Shirley at the time...He was first class all the way as Im sure the kid was upset.

Took Dave a few years to win his first State Championship as Raymond was always in the way...then he rattled off 10 straight. He had numerous college offers as you could imagine. When asked about why he never left he would say why go when I have it all right here...He also would give me great coaching tips as well when I was the Varsity FH coach.

Well what a great lifetime memory for you...and how small the world truly is to think years later I would be sharing a bond if you will here. Dave is one of the most humble guys I have ever met in coaching...in fact he was a Senior (already married) when I first met him at PSC (I was a freshman) so we go way back. Rumors are this is his last season but knowing him...he will retire quietly if and when..he does.

Thanks for sharing! You never know who is in your midst at any given time....

 

[HockeyRef]

​​​​​​Couldn't have summed it up much better than that Dan.

Yup no truer words and that is just what the AD needs to hear....

 

[norbert]

Looks like it is stats day today. While at the game Saturday I did not know many of the names on either roster so did a quick google for NHL draft picks in college hockey to see how teams in HE are made up

Here is what I found total and (highest pick)

BC: 8 (5)
BU: 12 (9)
CT: 5 (68)
UMass: 10 (40)
UML: 1 (140)
MC: 2 (99)
UNH: 5 (88)
NU: 12 (34)
PC: 10 (19)
VT: 6 (90)
Maine: 0

It is not shocking that the big name schools have a larger total, but when looking at the standings CT #1, MC #4, UML #5 that you can coach kids up. We are in a systemic failure that will not change until March.

 

[HockeyRef]

Looks like it is stats day today. While at the game Saturday I did not know many of the names on either roster so did a quick google for NHL draft picks in college hockey to see how teams in HE are made up

Here is what I found total and (highest pick)

BC: 8 (5)
BU: 12 (9)
CT: 5 (68)
UMass: 10 (40)
UML: 1 (140)
MC: 2 (99)
UNH: 5 (88)
NU: 12 (34)
PC: 10 (19)
VT: 6 (90)
Maine: 0

It is not shocking that the big name schools have a larger total, but when looking at the standings CT #1, MC #4, UML #5 that you can coach kids up. We are in a systemic failure that will not change until March.

Interesting. Personally after being in this for almost 10 seasons now I have come to that same conclusion...if you have alot of draft picks that's nice but it does not ensure success. Also in my short tenure some of our best players were never drafted....Goumas TvR Poturalski to name a few

So you are saying they are doing something write in Storrs UML and Merrimack? You better believe they are...and at Merrimack as well. Coaching matters...but so does picking up some decent transfers while we are at it...

 

[d.gerry]

I have seen posts about emailing the AD ect, it won't matter. It will be ignored and probably garner a generic response to the effect of, "We understand the frustration and lack of success, but will evaluate and put ourselves into a position to win" or some other BS like that.

Most likely ignored. I sent the AD an email two weeks ago with what I felt was a well reasoned and level headed communication regarding the unfortunate state of the program, as of yet no response... crickets. Maybe she prefers fans voice their coaching criticism in a more public forum?

 

[HockeyRef]

Most likely ignored. I sent the AD an email two weeks ago with what I felt was a well reasoned and level headed communication regarding the unfortunate state of the program, as of yet no response... crickets. Maybe she prefers fans voice their coaching criticism in a more public forum?

When I wrote about my issues with the first home game it took about 2 weeks to get a response…but this wasn’t a personnel issue. I seriously doubt due to potential legal concerns that she would engage in a personnel issue tbh…that said you deserved some kind of an acknowledgment. Good for you for letting her know how you feel…no doubt (and rightly so) she is getting an earful.