10/6/2006

Time to Work Off the Rust

Columbus, OH – The 2006-07 season officially started Monday, September 18, 2006, with the first practice of the season.  As has been tradition in past seasons, OSU hockey instructor Josh Ellis was brought in to run this practice.

“Conditioning is always important at the beginning of a season, however, many of the new, new players will need to become familiar with team systems and hone their individual perception of the game.  I cannot stress how important skill development and power skating will be this year for everyone playing the game of hockey.  The new USA Hockey standards of play will make the game faster and more skilled, but will require individuals to improve on their weaknesses,” said Ellis in regard to things the team will need to work on this season.

“At first when I heard it [the first practice] was power skating, I thought, ‘Is Coach trying to kill us?’  But after it got started, I believe it was a good choice,” said Stephanie Sepsi.

The first practice of the season has always focused on back-to-basics skills.  This gives players and coaches alike the opportunity to see what skill levels are there, what skills may need improved upon, and, of course, the chance to work on the off-season kinks.  A couple of players are coming off off-season injuries and some need to step up on cardio conditioning, according to Coach Jeff Cunningham.  Basic skating was a main focus of the practice.  Speed was not a focal point as strides were broken down in a step-by-step fashion. 

Rookies quickly got an introduction to what it takes to be a part of this team.  Coach Cunningham found the rookie class to be “better than expected.”  These players appeared to quickly fall in line with the veterans of the team. 

“I feel that they [the veterans] are there for me, and I really like them all so far,” said Traci Artist.

“As the season goes, I’m sure I’ll find my little spot that I fit into or which upperclassman I’m closest to, but for now, they [the veterans] are all awesome!” said Brittany Parker.

The first practice also gave coaches and players an idea of what to look forward to this season.  Coach Cunningham had favorable comments regarding veteran players.

“Ashley Busa and Brittnee Barris are just going to be Killer B's this season. They're really set to go.  Rachel Walters will be able to skate all day, too.  She's on the verge of an All-American season.  Marie Sato and Taylor Davidson both looked very sharp in the early going,” said Coach Cunningham.

As for future practices run by Josh Ellis, many of the players would gladly welcome him back.  Some felt he knew exactly what he was talking about and has a lot to share with the team.  It was noted that “his drills are simple, but will help in the long run and help the team become better skaters.”  One rookie had experienced a Josh Ellis practice prior to joining this team.

“He used to coach me when I was just a little kid.  I think he combines the right amount of speed drills with technique drills and a little bit of puck work.  He is great with the fundamental stuff,” said Parker.

Coach Cunningham had the following to say in regard to the outlook for the 2006-07 season.

“We'll be talented enough to be in every game we play this season.  The kids need to focus on developing a real team atmosphere, both on and off the ice.  If they really focus on togetherness and living life per our Buckeye Code (love, trust, respect, and personal responsibility), we're going to have a successful season.  If not, we'll be just another hockey club.  We've got a senior-dominated team, so I would hope the sense of urgency is paramount.  We'll see.”

The 2006-07 game schedule kicks off October 6-8 when the team drives on the familiar northern route 23 to that State-Up-North to participate in a tournament in Diamondale, MI.  The Lady Buckeyes will face St. Cloud State for the first time.  They will also go up against Michigan State’s Green team and Penn State.