**2009–10 Syracuse Orange Women’s Ice Hockey Season**
**Definition:**
The 2009–10 Syracuse Orange women’s ice hockey season was the program’s second NCAA Division I campaign, representing Syracuse University in the College Hockey America (CHA) conference. The team competed under head coach Paul Flanagan, aiming to build on their inaugural season and establish themselves as a competitive force in women’s collegiate ice hockey.
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## 2009–10 Syracuse Orange Women’s Ice Hockey Season
The 2009–10 season marked the sophomore year for the Syracuse Orange women’s ice hockey program at the NCAA Division I level. Under the leadership of head coach Paul Flanagan, the team sought to improve upon their debut season’s performance and make a significant impact within the College Hockey America (CHA) conference. The season featured a mix of experienced players and newcomers, with the team striving to develop a competitive identity and gain respect in the national women’s ice hockey landscape.
### Background
Syracuse University launched its women’s ice hockey program in the 2008–09 season, joining the College Hockey America conference alongside established programs such as Mercyhurst, Niagara, and Robert Morris. The inaugural season was a foundational year, focusing on recruiting, team chemistry, and adapting to the rigors of NCAA Division I competition. The 2009–10 season was critical for the Orange to demonstrate progress and competitiveness.
### Team Overview
– **Head Coach:** Paul Flanagan
– **Assistant Coaches:** (Names not specified)
– **Home Arena:** Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion, Syracuse, New York
– **Conference:** College Hockey America (CHA)
– **Season Goals:** Improve overall record, compete for CHA championship, develop player skills and team cohesion
### Roster
The 2009–10 Syracuse Orange roster combined returning players from the inaugural season with a strong recruiting class. The team featured a balance of forwards, defensemen, and goaltenders, with several players expected to contribute significantly on both ends of the ice.
#### Key Players
– **Goalies:** The goaltending duties were shared among a few netminders, with the starter expected to provide stability in the crease.
– **Defense:** The defensive corps aimed to limit opposing scoring chances and support offensive transitions.
– **Forwards:** The offensive unit included returning scorers and promising freshmen, tasked with generating goals and power-play opportunities.
### Season Schedule and Results
The Orange competed in a full NCAA Division I schedule, including conference matchups and non-conference games against regional and national opponents. The schedule was designed to challenge the team and provide experience against a variety of playing styles.
#### Regular Season
– The team played a series of games against CHA rivals such as Mercyhurst, Niagara, and Robert Morris.
– Non-conference games included matchups against established programs from other conferences, providing valuable exposure and competition.
– The Orange aimed to improve their win-loss record compared to the previous season.
#### College Hockey America Tournament
– The CHA tournament was the culmination of the conference schedule, with the winner earning an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament.
– Syracuse sought to advance beyond the first round and contend for the conference title.
### Season Performance
The 2009–10 Syracuse Orange women’s ice hockey team showed marked improvement in several areas compared to their inaugural season. The team’s defensive play tightened, and offensive production increased, leading to more competitive games and a better overall record.
– **Record:** The team’s win-loss record improved, reflecting growth and adaptation to Division I play.
– **Standings:** Syracuse finished in the middle tier of the CHA standings, demonstrating progress but still facing challenges against top conference opponents.
– **Player Development:** Several players emerged as key contributors, with notable performances in scoring, defense, and goaltending.
### Statistical Leaders
– **Scoring:** The leading scorers on the team contributed goals and assists, often playing pivotal roles in close games.
– **Goaltending:** The primary goaltender posted respectable save percentages and goals-against averages, providing a backbone for the team’s defense.
– **Special Teams:** Power play and penalty kill units showed improvement, contributing to the team’s competitiveness.
### Notable Games
– **Matchups Against Mercyhurst:** As the dominant team in the CHA, Mercyhurst presented a significant challenge. Syracuse’s games against them were closely watched as benchmarks for the program’s progress.
– **First Wins Over Conference Opponents:** The Orange secured key victories that highlighted their development and boosted team morale.
– **Non-Conference Upsets:** Any wins against higher-ranked or nationally recognized programs were notable achievements for the young program.
### Coaching and Strategy
Head coach Paul Flanagan emphasized disciplined defensive play, strong goaltending, and balanced offensive attack. The coaching staff focused on player development, team chemistry, and adapting game strategies to maximize the strengths of the roster.
– **Defensive Systems:** The team employed structured defensive zone coverage to limit high-quality scoring chances.
– **Offensive Tactics:** Emphasis was placed on quick transitions, cycling the puck, and creating scoring opportunities through teamwork.
– **Special Teams:** Power play units worked on puck movement and shot selection, while penalty kill units focused on aggressive forechecking and shot blocking.
### Awards and Honors
While the team was still building its reputation, individual players received recognition for their performances during the season.
– **CHA Weekly Honors:** Several players earned weekly awards for outstanding play.
– **All-Conference Selections:** Some team members were named to CHA all-star teams or received honorable mentions.
– **Academic Awards:** Players also achieved academic recognition, reflecting the program’s commitment to student-athlete success.
### Impact and Legacy
The 2009–10 season was a pivotal year for the Syracuse Orange women’s ice hockey program. The team’s progress laid the groundwork for future success and helped establish the program’s identity within the CHA and NCAA Division I women’s hockey.
– **Recruiting:** The season’s performance aided in attracting higher-caliber recruits in subsequent years.
– **Program Growth:** Increased competitiveness and visibility contributed to the program’s long-term development.
– **Community Engagement:** The team’s efforts helped build a fan base and support within the Syracuse University community.
### Conclusion
The 2009–10 Syracuse Orange women’s ice hockey season represented a significant step forward for a young program striving to establish itself in NCAA Division I competition. Through improved performance, player development, and competitive spirit, the team demonstrated potential and set the stage for continued growth in the years to follow.
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**Meta Description:**
The 2009–10 Syracuse Orange women’s ice hockey season was the program’s second NCAA Division I campaign, marked by improved performance and development under head coach Paul Flanagan in the College Hockey America conference.