Starting the season with new coaches, a new conference and a young team, girls’ hockey has already exhibited improvements from last year after varsity won its first game.

Charlie McChesney, the new varsity coach, said he is hopeful about the success of the team in the new conference.

“We have the skill to compete, but our success will be determined by the players,” McChesney said. “Joining the Metro West Conference gives us an opportunity to face some of the premier programs in the state.”

Despite some of the challenging teams the girls’ face, varsity won its first game against the St. Paul Blades 7-4, according to senior captain Sophia Noreen.

According to Noreen, the girls’ success stems from a positive outlook on the season and a new coaching staff that promote positive attitudes.

“Charlie coached boys JV last year,” Noreen said. “I really like him as a coach because he has such a positive attitude and I feel like he genuinely cares for the team and the players.”

According to Noreeen, after a losing record of 0-22 in the regular season last year, the girls’ are looking to improve their current record of 1-0 throughout the season.

After losing five seniors from varsity last year, according to McChesney, the girls’ team is looking to its younger players to fill the missing spots.

“It’s always tough to replace a large senior class but our returning players worked hard this off-season,” McChesney said. “We have an exciting group of newcomers who all have an opportunity to make an impact this season.”

According to McChesney, the SLP Hockey Association is supporting the girls’ hockey team to allow free admission to students at home games. Students only need to bring a valid student ID to get in.

The next girls’ hockey game is the home opener at 5 p.m. Nov. 15 against the Academy of Holy Angels at the SLP Recreation Center.

Tryouts for the varsity team were held from Oct. 27-31. If you’re interested in joining the girls’ hockey program, you can contact the coach Charlie McChesney or the athletic office.