The NAIT Ooks women's hockey team, led by Head Coach Brendan Jensen, is gearing up for an exciting and determined 2024/25 season. After capturing the ACAC gold medal last year, the Ooks are coming into the season with momentum and high expectations. With a talented roster and substantial depth, the team is focused on defending their title and working towards their ultimate goal: winning the ACAC Championship for the second year in a row.

It's a memorable and exciting year for the women's hockey program, which will be celebrating 25 years of excellence this season. To commemorate this milestone, the team will be embarking on a European tour over the Christmas season, where they will be playing a variety of teams, including the German National Team in Füssen. Head Coach Brendan Jensen is excited about the trip, saying it is a "tremendous opportunity to play some special opponents and give the team some lifelong memories."  

The roster has shifted significantly, with new recruits making up nearly half of the team this year. During their pre-season games, the team has taken the opportunity to build camaraderie and synergy with one another. "Throughout the course of non-conference play it has been great to see the team build to where they are at now, and we are excited to see that progress throughout the season." Coach Jensen said.  

Returning to the squad are twelve players who played pivotal roles in last year's ACAC Championship victory over Lakeland College. Among the returners includes Cassidy Shandro, whose run last season saw her score 18 goals with 10 assists, Cheyenna Harden, who tallied 7 goals and 17 assists, and Hannah Prinsen with 4 goals and 18 assists. All the senior players will be valuable assets who bring their championship experience to the table as the focus remains on competing for the top spot and defending the title.  

Every year brings its own challenges, but the coaching staff is confident in the team's ability to progress and overcome anything the season will bring together. "We as a staff are looking forward to the process throughout the season and seeing the group take steps together until March hits," Coach Jensen concluded. 

The team will take to the ice for their first conference game at 7:00 PM on October 10th at Old's College before heading home for their home opener on Saturday, October 12th at the NAIT Arena, puck drop is at 6:00 PM against the Olds Broncos.