Fairfield University Women's Club Hockey
Last year, the Fairfield University Women's Club Hockey team played only 2 games and was coached by two friends of players on the team. Fast forward to this season, and the team has a coach, has played 10 games, and won their division league championship. While their weekly schedule is still fairly relaxed, the progress the team has made is undeniable. The team has 28 players on its roster, with the season starting in October and ending in late February. With practices once a week and a game on the weekend, the commitment level is not intense, but the team has made strong strides towards more competitive play. The team would not be here without their leaders. Grace McGrath, the team treasurer, is responsible for the budget for ice times, referees, athletic trainers, busses, as well as gas money for weekend trips to Massachusetts. McGrath, a senior, says that her vision goes far beyond this season. "As a senior", McGrath says. "I am looking forward to seeing how the team does next year. My vision for the team next year is to have another great season and hopefully win the championship again. I hope the team is able to bring in more freshman talent and grow as a program". Above all else, though, the team a great connector for girls who would otherwise have likely not known each other. McGrath says that the most enjoyable part of hockey is "getting closer with all the girls on the team and making friends in different grades. My favorite part of hockey is my carpool. I loved the girls who I drove to practice and became good friends with them and would hear about everything going on in their lives. I love this team and all the girls on it". Next year, the team will look to build on their connection and championship season.