The Ohio State women’s ice hockey team achieved a historic milestone last Friday with an impressive 4-1 victory over the Clarkson Golden Knights in the Frozen Four semifinal. This win not only secures the Buckeyes a place in the National Championship game for the third consecutive year but also sets a new program record with 34 wins in a single season.
Head coach Nadine Muzerall expressed her pride in the team’s achievement, emphasizing the significant growth and development of the program during her tenure. She acknowledged the hard work and dedication that have led to this milestone, celebrating the transformation from a subpar background to one of the top teams in the league.
The game presented a formidable challenge for the Buckeyes, with Golden Knights’ goaltender Michelle Pasiechnyk putting up an impressive defense. Despite conceding an early goal in the first period, Ohio State displayed resilience and managed to equalize the score through an outstanding performance by senior forward Makenna Webster.
Throughout the game, the Buckeyes faced strong opposition from the Golden Knights, notably from Pasiechnyk, who made a total of 50 saves. Nevertheless, Ohio State’s relentless determination and unwavering belief in their abilities ultimately led them to victory. Sophomore forward Sloane Matthews cited a collective shift in mindset as a critical factor in overcoming the initial deficit, highlighting the team’s ability to rally and push forward.
With the score tied at 1-1, Matthews stepped up in the third period and delivered a crucial goal that put the Buckeyes in the lead. Her unwavering optimism and determination proved to be a driving force behind the team’s success. Furthermore, Joy Dunne’s left-wing wrist shot during a power play, followed by a final goal from graduate defenseman Hadley Hartmetz, secured a decisive 4-1 win for Ohio State.
As the Buckeyes prepare for the National Championship game, they will face the winner of the matchup between No. 2 Wisconsin and No. 3 Colgate. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 4 p.m. on ESPNU. The road to the championship game has been paved with hard-fought battles and strategic gameplay, and the Buckeyes are poised to deliver another outstanding performance in their pursuit of the title.
The remarkable resilience and teamwork displayed by the Ohio State women’s ice hockey team in the Frozen Four semifinal not only exemplifies their exceptional talent and skill but also reflects their unwavering commitment to success. As the Buckeyes gear up for the ultimate showdown in the National Championship game, their journey stands as a testament to the dedication and spirit of collegiate sports at its finest.