UTICA, NY- The Utica College women’s hockey team was ranked No. 10 in the USCHO.com preseason poll, released Monday.
Utica picked up 15 points in the poll, 12 behind ninth ranked Lake Forrest. This marks the first time in program history the Pioneers will open the season with a national ranking.
Plattsburgh State was the unanimous No. 1 after winning its third straight national title last season. University of Wisconsin-River Falls picked up the No. 2 ranking, followed by Elmira College, Middlebury, and Adrian to round out the top five.
The Pioneers, who finished last season with an overall record of 19-8-1, set a program record for wins in a season. Utica had a strong showing in its exhibition game, downing the Toronto Midget Aeros 6-2 on Sunday. Five different players scored in the win.
UC officially opens its season on the road on Nov. 1 at Lebanon Valley. The Pioneers will return home on Sunday, Nov. 13 as they take on ECAC West foe, William Smith in their home-opener.
