Northeastern Women’s Hockey Team Celebrates Historic Beanpot Championship Win
In a thrilling conclusion that echoed through the arena, the Northeastern women’s hockey team claimed their third consecutive Beanpot championship on January 21, defeating Boston University. This triumph marked the team’s 20th overall win in the Beanpot series, solidifying their legacy in women’s sports.
The Growth of Women’s Sports
Women’s sports have increasingly gained visibility and support in recent years, although they lag behind men’s leagues in establishment history. The NBA launched in 1946 while the WNBA followed by fifty years in 1996. Similarly, Major League Soccer (MLS) started in 1993, and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) began in 2012. The NHL was founded in 1917, while the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) was established in 2023, more than a century later. Despite these discrepancies, female athletes have continued to pave their paths with resilience, setting high standards for excellence in sports.
Inspiration Behind the Athletes
The roots of success often trace back to early influences. For senior forward Skylar Irving, it was notable figures like NHL star Sidney Crosby and Northeastern alumni Kendall Coyne. With limited role models in women’s professional hockey, the impact of Coyne, who advocated for the sport while embracing motherhood, resonated deeply with Irving.
“She was definitely one of my biggest inspirations as a female hockey player,” said Irving. “Just being able to watch her and see what she did every single day, it was so cool.”
The Journey Begins
Irving’s journey in hockey began at just two years of age, and her dedication has continued unabated into her 20s. Similarly, junior forward Holly Abela expressed gratitude for the role models she encountered, particularly Alina Müller, who played for Northeastern from 2018 to 2022.
“She kind of took me under her wing and she showed me what it means to be a true professional in every way,” mentioned Abela.
The Impact of Role Models
For many young female athletes, the absence of professional leagues has made college the ultimate goal. Abela expressed excitement over the formation of the PWHL, emphasizing that observing peers transition to professional play is inspiring.
Building a Strong Legacy
The Northeastern women’s hockey team is not just about winning; it’s about fostering a culture of excellence. The commitment from players reflects a collective ethos, dedicating efforts to maintain high standards both on and off the ice.
Despite the challenges faced by female athletes, progress is evident. The women’s Beanpot tournament has only been held at TD Garden since 2024, highlighting growing recognition of women’s sports.
“It’s so special that we have kind of been able to be a part of that growth,” Irving reflected, expressing pride in her team’s accomplishments.
Looking to the Future
As the PWHL gains traction, the future of women’s hockey looks promising. Melissa Piacentini, an assistant coach for Northeastern, noted the positive marketing and growing excitement surrounding women’s hockey.
“I think it’s grown so much, and it still has so far to go,” said Piacentini.
Conclusion
Players like Irving and Abela not only strive for greatness on the ice but also aim to uplift future generations of female athletes. With a robust support system and increasing opportunities, they pave the way for a new era in women’s sports. As the Northeastern women’s hockey team continues to break barriers, their legacy will undoubtedly inspire young athletes for years to come.
