Weekend Preview: Union Women’s Hockey Takes on Delaware
The Union Garnet Chargers women’s hockey team is set to host the University of Delaware Blue Hens this weekend at the M&T Bank Center for a significant weekend series. The puck drops at 6:00 p.m. on Friday and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, coinciding with the Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Game.
Recent Performance
Last weekend, Union made headlines by defeating #4 Cornell with a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory. Junior Maddie Leaney stood out, scoring a hat trick and providing a game-winning goal. Sophomore Karianne Engelbert contributed significantly as well, adding a goal and assisting Leaney on all three scores. Other key players included first-year Megan Duplantie and senior Stephanie Bourque, who each registered assists on Engelbert’s goal and one of Leaney’s goals. In a close match the following day, Union unfortunately fell to #13 Colgate 3-2 in another overtime battle, with Leaney adding a fourth goal to her weekend tally.
About the Blue Hens
The University of Delaware comes into the series after securing their second overall win and first conference victory against Lindenwood. Kaitlyn Finnegan led the Blue Hens in that match with two goals, also seeing goals from Victoria Borg, Kacey Blum, and Meera Smith. In contrast, Delaware encountered a tough loss the next day, falling 5-0 to Lindenwood.
The M&T Bank Center
The Garnet Chargers’ home for this season, the M&T Bank Center, offers a state-of-the-art facility, capable of hosting 2,200 for hockey events and up to 3,600 for various other activities. The arena features luxury suites, a hospitality suite, and spacious concession areas, making it an excellent venue for both players and fans.
Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Game
This Saturday marks the third annual Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Game for Union Women’s Hockey, a vital campaign linked to personal connections within the program. Union collaborates with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – Northeast New York Chapter to amplify awareness, seek donations, and support ongoing research aimed at improving lives affected by CF. Fans are encouraged to contribute with their donations to this worthy cause.
Historic Win Over Cornell
Union’s overtime victory against Cornell highlighted a resurgence for the team and marked their second consecutive win over the Big Red. The Garnet Chargers previously defeated Cornell 3-2 last season at Lynah Rink, breaking a lengthy winning streak by Cornell that had lasted two decades.
Key Players to Watch
Maddie Leaney has emerged as a pivotal player, notching four goals during the last weekend alone and becoming the first player in Union’s Division I history to record multiple hat tricks. Her outstanding performance has positioned her as a leader in Union’s points leaderboard with 58 career points.
Sophomore Karianne Engelbert also had a standout performance during the last matchup, assisting on multiple goals and currently leads the team with an impressive 14 points in just 14 games.
Team Roster Updates
This season, the Garnet Chargers feature 18 returning players, including notable forwards Leaney and Engelbert, as well as a mix of experienced defensemen and goaltenders. The team has also welcomed six first-year players and two transfers who are expected to make an immediate impact.
Coaching and Leadership
Under the guidance of second-year head coach Tony Maci, the team significantly improved last season, achieving a record-setting number of wins. The coaching staff is completed by Skelly, Ciraulo, and Hall, who have also contributed to the team’s progress. Senior Stephanie Bourque serves as team captain, supported by junior Megan Ognibene and senior Mallory Mauracher as assistant captains.
Looking Ahead
With expectations high as they compete at home against Delaware, the Garnet Chargers are determined to expand on their recent successes. The weekend’s events will not only highlight the players’ talents but also underscore Union’s commitment to raising awareness for cystic fibrosis.
