The intensity is growing in each passing game for the U of L Pronghorns hockey teams. Not since the 2011-2012 season have the ‘Horns men’s and women’s hockey teams made the playoffs. But that could soon change. With four games remaining, each is within reach of finishing in a playoff spot.
“It’s electric right now, and it’s contagious,” U of L Pronghorns women’s hockey coach, Michelle Janus, said. “Last weekend there was quite a few people in the stands. It was really exciting. The players feed off of that, so it’s nice to see.”
The women currently sit in the final playoff position in Canada West, four points up on Mount Royal. They could solidify a postseason berth with a weekend sweep when the two teams meet Saturday, setting up the most pivotal games of the season for the women’s program.
“Right now it’s everything,” Janus said. “It’s a new season once playoffs start. But I am very proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, though playoffs would definitely be the icing on the cake.”
The men, who currently sit one point out of a playoff spot, also meet Mount Royal in a home-and-home this weekend.
“We’re starting to gel,” Pronghorns men’s hockey coach, Spiros Anastas, said. “And I know it sounds crazy with only four games left, but we have the youngest team in the country.”
The young Pronghorns are catching fire at just the right time, with three wins in their last four games. If they continue to play with the same type of energy and effort, the ‘Horns could very well be playoff bound.
“Our schedule is advantageous to us because the teams that we’re chasing eventually play each other and they play good teams this weekend,” Anastas said. “So a couple wins could do it for us.”
The men’s hockey team hosts Mount Royal on Friday at 7 p.m. at Nicholas Sheran arena, while the women meet the Cougars on home ice Saturday at the same time.
Fans can come to the games for free if they bring a non-perishable food item.
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