Colmar, Pa. – The Arcadia University women’s hockey team has achieved a significant milestone under the leadership of head coach Kelsey Koelzer, guiding the team to their first Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) women’s hockey championship in just their third season. The Knights secured the championship with a convincing 4-1 win against King’s College on February 7, 2024, and ended the season with a record of 15-10-0 overall and 13-7-0 in the MAC.

In this remarkable season, Arcadia boasts an impressive 16-3-3 record, placing them second in the eight-team conference with a 14-2-2 record and a perfect 9-0-2 on the road, which highlights their strength and determination.

Koelzer, who took on the challenge of starting the program back in September 2019, is the first Black woman to lead an NCAA hockey program. Reflecting on her journey, she revealed, “My initial qualms or nervousness my first year of coaching was just kind of wondering how much passion I truly would have for it and how much I would like it. But it’s been so awesome, and at this point, I can’t picture myself doing anything else.”

Arcadia’s athletic director Brian Granata expressed confidence in Koelzer from the very start, stating, “We saw a rising star in the industry… she played at a high level and has a very good IQ.” Koelzer faced the challenge of recruiting top talent to a growing program, managing to bring together a skilled group of players who understood the long-term vision for the team.

Senior forward Karahkwenhawe White, who leads the team with 28 points this season, credited Koelzer’s impressive background and achievements as motivating factors for her decision to join Arcadia. White said, “I knew she was such a smart hockey player and played at such a high level.” Similarly, Koelzer’s journey from a young player to a successful coach has become an inspiration for her players. Senior captain Ariel Williamson remarked that Koelzer’s influence made her consider pursuing a coaching career.

Koelzer is not only a trailblazer for her team but also recognizes her role as a mentor for future generations of Black women in sports. “This success has, I think, kept doors open moving forward but also opened more doors for the next generation of Black women,” she stated. With a bright future ahead, the Arcadia Knights are not only competing at a high level but are also paving the way for inclusivity within the sport.