Virginia Tech Ice Hockey: A Journey of Excellence
Virginia Tech Ice Hockey: A Journey of Excellence
Introduction
Virginia Tech Ice Hockey is a varsity sports team that represents Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) in the Atlantic Hockey Association (AHA). The team has a rich history and has consistently achieved success at both the conference and national levels.
History
The Virginia Tech Ice Hockey program was founded in 1972 as a club sport. In 1996, the team became a varsity sport and began competing in the AHA. The Hokies have won the AHA regular season championship three times (2004, 2006, and 2009) and the AHA tournament championship twice (2004 and 2006). The team has also made four appearances in the NCAA Tournament (2004, 2006, 2009, and 2015).
Current Team
The current Virginia Tech Ice Hockey team is led by head coach John Lyman. The team is composed of 25 players, including 12 forwards, 8 defensemen, and 3 goaltenders. The Hokies are known for their fast-paced, offensive style of play.
Home Arena
The Virginia Tech Ice Hockey team plays its home games at the Berglund Center in Roanoke, Virginia. The Berglund Center is a multi-purpose arena that also hosts concerts, sporting events, and other events. The arena has a seating capacity of 8,674.
Rivalries
Virginia Tech Ice Hockey has several rivals, including the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Boston College, and the University of Maine. The Hokies have a long-standing rivalry with UMass Amherst, and the two teams have played each other over 40 times. The Hokies also have a rivalry with Boston College, and the two teams have played each other over 30 times.
Awards and Honors
Virginia Tech Ice Hockey has received numerous awards and honors over the years. The team has won the AHA regular season championship three times, the AHA tournament championship twice, and has made four appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The Hokies have also had several players receive individual awards, including two AHA Players of the Year and three AHA Rookies of the Year.
Community Involvement
Virginia Tech Ice Hockey is committed to giving back to the community. The team volunteers with several local organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club of Roanoke Valley, and the United Way of Roanoke Valley. The Hokies also host an annual hockey clinic for children.
Conclusion
Virginia Tech Ice Hockey is a successful and respected program that has a rich history and a bright future. The team is committed to excellence on and off the ice, and is a source of pride for Virginia Tech and the Roanoke Valley community.
