The Colgate Club Hockey Team, also known as the Colgate Raiders, is a NCAA Division I ice hockey team that represents Colgate University in Hamilton, New York. As a member of the ECAC Hockey conference, the team has a rich history of competing at the highest level, with a loyal fan base and a strong tradition of developing talented players.
History of the Team
The Colgate hockey program was established in 1920, and has since become a staple of the university’s athletic department. The team has experienced its fair share of ups and downs over the years, but has consistently produced competitive teams that have made appearances in the NCAA Tournament. In recent years, the team has shown significant improvement, with several winning seasons and a growing presence in the national rankings.
Conference and Schedule
As a member of the ECAC Hockey conference, the Colgate Raiders compete against some of the top teams in the country, including Harvard, Cornell, and Princeton. The team’s schedule typically includes 22 conference games, as well as several non-conference matchups against teams from other top conferences. The ECAC Hockey conference is known for its competitive balance and strong rivalries, making every game a challenging and exciting matchup for the Raiders.
Home Arena
The Colgate Raiders play their home games at the Class of 1965 Arena, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2016. The arena has a seating capacity of over 1,800 and features a NHL-sized ice rink, as well as modern amenities and concessions. The Class of 1965 Arena provides an electric atmosphere for home games, with a lively student section and a strong sense of community among fans.
Coaching Staff
The Colgate Raiders are led by a experienced and knowledgeable coaching staff, headed by Head Coach Mike Harder. Coach Harder has over 20 years of coaching experience, including stints at several top programs in the country. He is joined by a talented group of assistant coaches, who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team.
Player Development
The Colgate Raiders have a strong commitment to player development, with a focus on helping players achieve their full potential both on and off the ice. The team’s coaching staff works closely with players to develop their skills and improve their overall game, and the university’s strong academic programs provide players with a top-notch education and preparation for life after hockey.
Community Involvement
The Colgate Raiders are actively involved in the local community, with a strong focus on promoting hockey and giving back to the area. The team participates in several community outreach programs, including youth hockey clinics and charity games, and players are encouraged to get involved in volunteer work and community service.
Notable Alumni
The Colgate Raiders have a long history of producing talented players who go on to succeed at the professional level. Several notable alumni include:
- Steven Zalewski, who played in the NHL for the San Jose Sharks and New Jersey Devils
- Austin Smith, who played in the NHL for the Dallas Stars
- Eric Mihalik, who played in the AHL for the Rochester Americans
Future of the Program
The Colgate Raiders are poised for success in the future, with a strong core of returning players and a talented group of incoming recruits. The team’s coaching staff is committed to building a competitive program that can contend for conference championships and make appearances in the NCAA Tournament. With a loyal fan base and a strong tradition of excellence, the Colgate Raiders are an exciting team to watch and a great option for fans of college hockey.
What conference does the Colgate Raiders hockey team compete in?
+The Colgate Raiders hockey team competes in the ECAC Hockey conference.
Where do the Colgate Raiders play their home games?
+The Colgate Raiders play their home games at the Class of 1965 Arena.
Who is the head coach of the Colgate Raiders hockey team?
+The head coach of the Colgate Raiders hockey team is Mike Harder.
In conclusion, the Colgate Raiders hockey team is a competitive and exciting team that is committed to excellence on and off the ice. With a strong tradition of developing talented players and a loyal fan base, the team is poised for success in the future. Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or just looking for a fun and exciting team to follow, the Colgate Raiders are definitely worth checking out.
| Season | Wins | Losses | Ties |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019-2020 | 12 | 16 | 6 |
| 2020-2021 | 10 | 14 | 4 |
| 2021-2022 | 15 | 12 | 5 |
The team’s schedule and results are subject to change, but one thing is certain - the Colgate Raiders will be a force to be reckoned with in the world of college hockey.
How to Follow the Colgate Raiders Hockey Team
- Check out the team's website for the latest news and updates
- Follow the team on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest scores and highlights
- Attend a game at the Class of 1965 Arena to experience the electric atmosphere firsthand
By following these steps, you can stay connected with the Colgate Raiders hockey team and be a part of the excitement. Whether you’re a current student, alumni, or just a fan of college hockey, the Colgate Raiders are a great team to follow.
Pros and Cons of Attending a Colgate Raiders Game
Pros
- Electric atmosphere at the Class of 1965 Arena
- Competitive hockey with talented players
- Opportunity to meet and interact with the team
Cons
- Games can be sold out, making it difficult to get tickets
- Some fans may find the atmosphere too intense or overwhelming
- Parking and concessions can be limited
Overall, attending a Colgate Raiders game is a great experience for fans of college hockey. With a competitive team and electric atmosphere, the Class of 1965 Arena is a great place to catch a game.
