The Mercyhurst University women’s hockey team dropped to ninth in ranking according USA Today/ USA Hockey Magazine Women’s College Hockey Poll announced Tuesday.
The Lakers opened their season with two victories last weekend against University of Western Ontario (6-2) and Whitby Wolves of the Provincial Women’s Hockey League (9-1). Followed by a win and loss against Minnesota State University-Mankato this past Friday (2-4) and Saturday (3-2).

“The girls are doing extremely well.,” senior Christie Cicero said. “We are clicking rather quickly which is great for our team chemistry. I am glad we have all gotten along so well and so quick since our games have already started. We need an immediate team bond, and that’s what we got.”

The Lakers finished their 2012-13 season with their 13th straight regular season title, 11th conference championship, ninth straight NCAA Tournament appearance and their third trip to the NCAA Frozen Four, and they are looking forward to another amazing season.

The Lakers are working and practicing hard to make this season one to never forget.

“During our practices we prepare each week with a new game plan. We watch video on our upcoming opponents and essentially study what they do,” Cicero said. “We practice how to respond to their plays, and what to do in key situations. But, our practice time is also important for us to mentally focus as well as physically prepare. Everything we do in practice carries over to the games.”

The Lakers returned with 16 stand-out players along with six freshmen.

“On-ice, the new girls have adapted fairly well to the new pace of collegiate hockey. They have been thrown in the fire in our games, which is huge,” Cicero said. “We need our new people to step up and give us big games as if they have been there before and I think they are doing a fantastic job at it.”

“I’m proud of how well the freshmen have adjusted and how well all of the returners helped lead them in the right direction.”

The Lakers have tough match-ups this year, playing some extremely difficult teams throughout their conference.

“There is not a single team that is our biggest or toughest competition. Every team plays us hard and we get every team’s best, which is what we look forward to every night,” Cicero said.

Ed Mailliard photo: Sophomore Maggie Rothgery scored her second career goal against Minnesota State University-Mankato this past weekend.
The Lakers next home game is Wednesday against Ohio State University.