In a recent announcement by the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) on Tuesday, two exceptional players from the Ohio State Buckeyes women’s ice hockey team were honoured as February’s Players of the Month. Senior forward Jenna Buglioni and senior defenseman Lauren Bernard were recognised for their exceptional contributions to the team’s success.
Buglioni, who was named Forward of the Month, emerged as a standout performer for the Buckeyes in February, leading the team in points. Her dedication to improving her all-around game, including faceoff percentage, and her pivotal role in the penalty kill were acknowledged as key factors in her award. Notably, Buglioni’s stellar performance saw her achieving 13 points and scoring seven goals in February, including two impressive shorthanded goals during the game against Bemidji State, where she netted her first career hat trick, a rare feat in Buckeye history.
Meanwhile, Bernard, who was bestowed with the title of Defenseman of the Month, was celebrated for her remarkable defensive prowess and her leading position in assists for the Buckeyes. Her significant contribution to the team’s success was evident when she delivered the game-winning goal against St. Thomas, ultimately securing the regular-season conference title for Ohio State. With a total of 11 points in February, Bernard’s impact on the team was undeniable.
Buglioni, in admiration of her teammate’s achievements, highlighted the crucial role that defenders like Bernard play in the team’s success – accentuating their skill and contribution in both defensive and offensive aspects of the game. Recognizing Bernard as one of the linchpins of the team’s defensive corps, Buglioni emphasised the significant efforts put forth by the players.
Although humbled by the recognition, Buglioni was quick to attribute her success to the collective effort of the team, acknowledging the exceptional talent and dedication of her fellow teammates. In fact, she expressed her belief that several of her teammates are equally qualified for the Player of the Month honour, highlighting the depth of talent and skill within the Buckeyes’ roster.
Moving forward, the accolades serve as a testament to the exceptional capabilities of the Buckeyes’ women’s ice hockey team, demonstrating their dominance in the league. Unyielding in their focus on team success, Buglioni emphasised that despite individual accolades, the team’s primary goal remains centred on the collective achievement of winning games.
In conclusion, the recognition of Buglioni and Bernard as WCHA Players of the Month is a resounding acknowledgment of their outstanding performance and invaluable contributions to the Ohio State Buckeyes women’s ice hockey team. As the team continues to strive for success, the exceptional talent and unwavering teamwork exhibited by Buglioni, Bernard, and their teammates undoubtedly position them as formidable contenders in the world of collegiate ice hockey.