by: Chandler Beard, contributing writer

The Chatham Women’s hockey team has made the move from the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) to the United Collegiate Hockey Conference (UCHC) this year. In previous years Chatham Women’s Hockey has not fared well in the ECAC, as just last year they finished 2-15-1 in conference.
Despite losing 4 players from last year including Erica Martin who is the all-time leader in goals and assists in the history of the Chatham Women’s Hockey program, they still believe they can turn this program around for the better for many reasons.
“Yeah, I think we have a pretty good chance this year. We have a lot of good new players and we have a lot of good new returning players,” Tara Riley, returning sophomore goaltender said.
Riley later said, “We are stronger and more in shape then we were last year. We have Erica as our strength and conditioning coach now. She’s been helping us work out and get ready for the season. So, I think that’s going to be a big aspect coming in.”
Returning senior defenseman Kasandra Peterson voices the expectations for this upcoming season.
“My expectations for the season are pretty high, especially since we are in a new conference! As a team, our number one goal is making playoffs. As for personal expectations for the team, I’d love to see us have a record season. My first year we won 10 games which is the current record for wins in a single season. I think, with the team we have this year, we will be able to do that and more,” Peterson said.
Peterson led the team in assists last season with 10, was tied for the lead of points with 16, and was tied 3rd on the team for goals scored with 6. Not to mention, she was tied in first for points with McKenzie Haskins, who finished up her career last year. This means Peterson is going to have to step up this season, as the leading scorer is now gone. She doesn’t shy away from this fact.
“Personally, I’d love to finish my hockey career with my best season so far. I want to contribute as much as I can as both a leader and as a player, on and off the ice,” Peterson said.
The Cougars will kick off their season this upcoming Saturday in an exhibition matchup against the HTI Stars at 2:30 at the Alpha Ice Complex.