The Windsor Lancer women's hockey team is laced up and ready to hit the ice for the 2023-24 season. The blue and gold will kick off their campaign on the road against the Waterloo Warriors on Thursday, October 12th at 7:00 p.m. The women will then return to their stomping grounds at Capri Pizzeria Complex on Saturday, October 14th to go head-to-head with the Guelph Gryphons at 7:30 p.m.
 
This season, the team's ambition knows no bounds. Head coach Deanna Iwanicka succinctly captures her expectations: "HUNGRY!" The Lancers are driven by their hunger, resilience, and expertise across the bench. Their objectives this year are threefold: securing a sport in the USPORTS Top 10 by December, hosting playoffs, and competing Nationals in Saskatoon.
"We are hungry. We will be hard to play against. We are ready to execute on our specialty teams," Iwanicka stated with confidence.
 
In preparation for the 2023-24 season, the women have focused on building team trust and productive conflict, two of their five team functions. With innovative team tactics and newfound chemistry among players, the Lancers are primed for success.
 
Fans can anticipate outstanding performances from graduating student-athletes Jessica Gribbon and Kristen Swiatoschik, the captain and goaltender respectively, who serve as the backbone of the squad. Their leadership and skill will undoubtedly guide the team to a successful and competitive season. Swiatoschik, 2022-23 OUA Goalie of the Year, returns to the crease for another season standing tall in the blue and gold. Swiatoschik will also be challenged by teammates Cadence Petitclerc and Holly Borrett, creating a trio of powerhouses at the end of the ice.
 
Defensively, seasoned veterans Elizabeth Coleman and Devynn Dion will lead the charge with a solid backline. The attacking lineup boasts players Maggie Peterson, 2022-23 OUA first all-star forward, and Keana McKibbin, 2022-23 OUA rookie of the year. Fans can also keep an eye out for Jaden Cherry, whose talent promises a standout season, and rookie Olivia Knuff, a first year forward who has left a lasting impression with her preseason performance.
 
Beyond the boards of the rink, head coach Iwanicka detailed that it is the Lancer family that fuels the team's spirit and drive for success. Iwanicka expressed gratitude for the support from the Athletic staff, including Director of Athletics Stephanie White, and upper administration, notably University of Windsor President Dr. Rob Gordon. Overall, it was a point of emphasis for Iwanicka that the Lancers "rely on the support of our campus community to create the best possible academic and athletic experience for our student-athletes."
 
The collaboration between on-campus supporters and engaged alumni of the blue and gold ensures a strong foundation for the team's success. Recognizing the significance of alumni involvement, the team hopes to witness increased support from alumni both in the stands and through sponsorship this season.
 
Want to be a part of the action? Season tickets or individual game tickets are available at goLancers.ca/tickets or purchase them at the admission gate at the CPRC on game day. The Lancer family can also stay connected all season long by streaming Lancer women's hockey games on OUA.tv.