BY LAUREN MORAN
On March 9th history was made. For the first time in program history, the Stonehill Women’s Ice Hockey team Won the New England Women’s Ice Hockey Alliance championship propelling them to the NCAA Women’s Hockey Tournament. But here’s the catch, this is only their sophomore season since being founded in 2022. But through fierce determination, incredible skill, and a tight-knit culture, these athletes were able to achieve something remarkable.
The championship game was an event that athletes dream of. Taking place at the Bridgewater Ice Arena against Franklin Pierce, the opposing teams hit the ice setting up a game that would end up being an intense competitive back-and-forth game. From the opening face-off, it was evident that Stonehill was determined to seize the championship title. The Skyhawks were on the board first with Alexis Petford scoring in the last two minutes of the first period. As the game carried on with a second goal from Stonehill’s Kathryn Karo and two from the Ravens, it was an absolute battle with Eve Stone tallying 21 saves leading to the final buzzer at 2-2.
All this excitement led to the moment these athletes would remember forever. After a back-and-forth start in the extra period, the Ravens had got a minor penalty leading to the Skyhawks' third power-play of the game. In just seconds in Paige Whaley sent a slot pass from the goal line to Bailey Feeney deflecting a shot for an overtime game-winner. The rink exploded with gloves and sticks flying in celebration toward the entire team on the ice.
The triumph not only marked a historic achievement for the Stonehill women's hockey program but also propelled them to the national stage where they traveled to Colgate University to play Cornell University in the the NCAA Ice Hockey Regional Championship. The Skyhawks came out strong in the first period with Eve Stone tallying 16 saves only letting one goal in from the Big Red. The Skyhawks quickly came back with a goal in the first five minutes of the second period with a goal from Alexis Petford. Despite the Skyhawk's valiant efforts, the Big Red took over and scored six more goals in the second and third periods.
Although the Skyhawks didn’t progress further in the NCAA tournament, what these athletes have accomplished for not only their program but for the school is nothing but incredible. Through such fierce determination, resilience, and love for the game, these athletes have left a mark on Stonehill Athletics' legacy. This is just the beginning for these women and Skyhawk fans cannot wait to see what they can do in the future.