Friday, September 16, 2011

CU Women’s Club Hockey vs. CSU in Season Opener

BOULDER (9/15/11) – The University of Colorado women’s club hockey team will take on the Colorado State Rams in the CU Recreational Center Sept. 23 at 8:00 p.m. The Buffs are looking to open the season with a win against their rival, CSU.

“I’m excited to see our team come together this season,” said head coach Kristen Van Slyke. “ Senior captain Elizabeth Stoll has continued to show her teammates the ropes as they have been working hard in practice and off-ice for the past few weeks to get ready for this rivalry game against CSU.”

The preseason was a success for the Buffaloes. The Buffs’ added five talented freshmen to the team: Amye Koziel, Devon Seibt, Emera Danos, Lauren Johnson and Corrine Landy.

Devon and Lauren are going to be strong additions to our offense,” said Van Slyke. “Amye, Emera, and Corrine will add depth to our defense. In addition, we have our junior goalie, Emily Engel, returning for a third season. She has been a key part of our team and we rely on her to make big saves during ACHA games.”

The Buffaloes’ enthusiasm and speed will be their strongpoints this year according to Van Slyke.

“They are very excited for the upcoming season and are ready to win games. They are extremely fast on both offense and defense, which will be helpful when playing a strong CSU team,” said the head coach.  

Beating CSU will be no easy task for CU. The Rams are a perennial powerhouse in hockey and are always well coached.

“To beat CSU this season, we will have to focus and work hard over the next week to make sure we have chemistry between the new and returning players,” said Van Slyke. “Although CSU added a lot of young talent this year, I am confident that my team will be ready to play them next Friday.”

Colorado’s J.V. team will take on CSU’s J.V. team prior to the varsity game. Tickets to both games are free. Colorado will play Colorado State again in Fort Collins at the Epic Ice Arena Sept. 24 at 6:45 p.m.