A New Chapter: STU Tommies Women's Hockey Clips In for the 2024-25 Season

As the STU Tommies women's hockey team embarks on the 2024-25 season, there is a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement. After a solid bounce-back year in 2023-24, this season promises growth and continued success.

The Tommies exceeded expectations last season, which was originally considered a rebuilding year, but the team rallied to perform well beyond those initial assumptions. Reflecting on this, the coaching staff noted the team’s resilience and drive, which became crucial in shaping their approach for the upcoming season. Identifying key areas for improvement, they have bolstered their lineup through targeted recruitment and made adjustments to some of their systems to further enhance their performance.

This season, the Tommies welcome seven new players to their ranks, significantly deepening their roster across all positions. The additions include offensive talents both on defense and forward lines, making for an exciting prospect as these players settle into the lineup. The coaching staff is eager to see how this newfound depth will elevate the team’s performance, with all signs pointing to a seamless transition.

"The whole Tommies program has shown a tremendous amount of support while adapting to the changes of university hockey. I’m excited to continue working and learning with the program to grow my skills on and off the ice," said rookie Alexie Palchinski. 

One of the most encouraging aspects of the recruits is their character. Each one embodies the values and traditions of the team, ensuring they will continue to serve as excellent ambassadors for both the university and the sport of hockey.

The coaching and management staff remain unchanged from last season, providing consistency in leadership, which will be instrumental as they continue to build on last year’s progress.

The offseason was a critical period for player development. The team arrived in top physical condition for preseason testing, demonstrating their commitment and readiness to compete. While the coaching staff will work individually with players to address any minor concerns, the overall readiness of the team, including the rookies, is a positive sign ahead of the new campaign.

"This offseason, the team definitely put in a lot of work in the gym and on the ice as our fitness testing scores raised new standards and our practices have been off to a great start. I’m very excited to join Kat, Amy, and Jordan as a part of the leadership group this year, they’re all great leaders. This season, the team is looking to start off strong and work hard throughout the year. We have a fast and driven group who will look to push the standard and compete each time they step on the  ice," said assistant captain Laura Brown. 

The team’s goals will be finalized following their exhibition games, but the overarching expectation is clear: hard work and dedication in every practice and game. The Tommies aim to push one another to reach new heights, knowing they are only as strong as their weakest link. With a focus on continuous improvement, the team is set to challenge themselves and their opponents.

Several key returning players will take the lead this season. The Tommies highest-scoring line—Kat, Nadia, and Trin—is back, bringing momentum from their impressive performances last year. Additionally, Natalie and Laura are coming off career-best seasons, while Katie finished the year strong and is poised to carry that form into the new season.

"Alongside Amy, Laura, and Jordan, I am truly honoured to be a part of the leadership group and named captain for another season. Our rookies are bringing in fresh energy. Everyone arrived after the summer, ready to play! Our fitness testing and practices are strong, and we are eager for our first series of exhibition games this weekend." said captain Ekaterina Pelowich

Leadership will be a team-wide effort, with the captains and senior players setting the standard both on and off the ice. Their influence will extend beyond gameplay, as they model excellence in athletics, academics, and community involvement. However, the team emphasizes that leadership opportunities are open to everyone, regardless of experience.

The Tommies plan to lean into their speed as a central strategy this season. A focus on getting the puck into scoring areas will also be critical, as they aim to be a team that is difficult to play against. By combining their fast-paced style with increased offensive pressure, the Tommies hope to create more scoring opportunities while maintaining their traditional defensive solidity.

The primary challenge for the Tommies this season will be getting all players, especially the new recruits, up to speed as quickly as possible. Implementing and fine-tuning systems before the regular season starts is always a hurdle, but returning players will play a key role in helping new teammates acclimate.

Despite these challenges, the team sees plenty of opportunities. With increasing parity in the league, the competition will be fierce, but the Tommies strong defensive base offers a platform to expand their offensive capabilities. Growth on both ends of the ice will be essential to gaining an edge over their opponents.

Support from the Tommies community will be crucial this season. Players thrive on the energy that fans bring to the arena, and the team calls on supporters to come out in force for games. Additionally, the team is planning several events aimed at raising awareness and funds for various causes, providing fans with even more reason to engage with the team.

There will also be efforts to enhance the Tommies webcast content, giving fans from across the country a more immersive experience even if they can’t attend games in person.

With the rise of the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL), this is an exciting time for women’s hockey. The Tommies encourage fans to come out and witness high-level hockey right in their backyard, where many of the players could one day make the leap to the professional ranks. This season promises to be an exciting chapter for the team, and they are ready to make their mark.