Mercyhurst Ice Hockey: A Legacy of Excellence and Heart
Mercyhurst Ice Hockey: A Legacy of Excellence and Heart
Our Mercyhurst Ice Hockey team has been a beacon of pride and inspiration for our university and community for nearly two decades. With a storied history of success on and off the ice, our Lakers have consistently raised the bar, showcasing exceptional athleticism, unwavering determination, and a deep commitment to excellence.
A Winning Tradition
Since joining NCAA Division I in 2005, Mercyhurst Ice Hockey has established itself as a perennial powerhouse. Our team boasts an impressive win percentage of over .600, including 12 seasons with over 20 wins. The Lakers have made 11 NCAA Tournament appearances, advancing to the Frozen Four in 2014 and 2017.
Academic Achievements
Our student-athletes excel not only on the ice but also in the classroom. Mercyhurst Ice Hockey consistently ranks among the top academic programs in the nation. The team has earned the American Hockey Coaches Associations Team Academic Award every year since 2012, recognizing a team GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Community Involvement
Our Lakers are deeply engaged in our local community. Through various outreach programs, they volunteer their time at schools, hospitals, and local charities. The teams annual "Skate with the Lakers" event brings joy to hundreds of children each year.
Inspiring Stories
Behind the winning record and academic accolades lies a wealth of inspiring stories. Here are just a few examples:
- In 2017, senior forward Brendan Riley was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer during the season. Despite undergoing chemotherapy and radiation, he returned to the team and played in the Frozen Four. His unwavering spirit and determination served as an inspiration to his teammates and the entire Mercyhurst community.
- In 2020, freshman forward Emily Janiga scored the game-winning goal in the Atlantic Hockey Championship game, leading the Lakers to their first conference title in program history. Janigas goal-scoring prowess and competitive drive epitomized the teams commitment to excellence.
- In 2021, Mercyhurst Ice Hockey hosted a "Fill the Fridge" food drive, collecting over 1,000 pounds of food donations for the Second Harvest Food Bank. The initiative showcased the teams compassion and desire to make a positive impact in their community.
Behind the Scenes
Our teams success is not just about the players on the ice. A dedicated support staff works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the Lakers have everything they need to excel. Our coaching staff, led by legendary head coach Rick Gotkin, is renowned for its expertise and ability to develop young players into elite athletes.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Mercyhurst Ice Hockey boasts some of the finest facilities in the country. Our 4,500-seat Mercyhurst Ice Center provides a world-class environment for our players to compete and train. The facility features two NHL-sized rinks, a state-of-the-art weight room, and a dedicated hockey performance lab.
Our Future is Bright
The future of Mercyhurst Ice Hockey is incredibly bright. Our young and talented roster is poised to continue the teams winning tradition. With a strong pipeline of recruits and a commitment to excellence, the Lakers are well-positioned to achieve even greater heights in the years to come.
Join the Lakers Family
We invite you to be a part of the Mercyhurst Ice Hockey family. Whether youre a prospective student-athlete, a dedicated fan, or simply someone who appreciates the power of sports, we welcome you. Attend a game, support our team online, and join us in celebrating the legacy of Mercyhurst Ice Hockey.
