SEASON PREVIEW: 2024-25 to be a new chapter in Gee-Gees women’s hockey
The University of Ottawa women's hockey team is days away from their home opener, and they have lots to look forward to in the 2024-25 season. Playing in a new conference, led by a new head coach, and welcoming 13 new recruits, the Gee-Gees squad is fresh, excited, and ready to make their mark.
"We're very excited," said Gee-Gees head coach, Ali Domenico. "Going into every game and not being familiar with our opponents at all is really neat and emphasises the focus on ourselves."
The Gee-Gees will see 12 new teams as they work through their OUA schedule.
"We're going to focus on us. It doesn't matter who we're playing against," Domenico explained. "Our process and performance need to remain consistent. New teams, new rinks, new cities, it's really exciting."
Domenico joined the Gee-Gees program over the summer. With experience coaching on the Canadian Women's National Team and at the NCAA Division I level, Domenico brings a great deal of knowledge to the young Gee-Gees squad.
Most recently an assistant coach for the Providence Friars, Domenico helped guide the team NCAA Tournament appearance in 2021 and berth in the Hockey East Championship game in 2021 and 2024.
In addition to a new head coach, the Gee-Gees welcomed 13 new recruits.
Goaltender Mireille Kingsley also joins Ottawa from Providence. Kingsley rounds out the goaltending trio, joining Clara Genier and Lauren McKay.
Another NCAA veteran made the switch to join the Gee-Gees from Saint Lawrence. Originally from Seoul, South Korea, Suyeon Eom brings experience to the Gee-Gees blue line, playing four seasons with the Saints as well as representing Team South Korea at the 2018 Winter Olympics.
"With a lot of new faces there is a lot of learning, but with our four exhibition games I think we figured out our identity," Domenico said. "We're looking forward to the upcoming games."
Third year Gee-Gee, Beatrice Bilodeau will take on the role of captain. Florence Lessard and Angelique Proulx join the leadership group as the team's assistant captains.
Last season, Lessard led the team with 13 total points. Alyssa Biesenthal also returns to the Gee-Gees lineup after leading the squad with seven goals during the 2023-24 regular season.
"Our leaders and returners have set a good foundation for the group," Domenico said. "They will be an integral part of our success this season."
Closing out their 21st year in the RSEQ with a loss in game three of the RSEQ semi-final, the Gee-Gees will make their return to the OUA on Friday night as they host the Western Mustangs at 7 p.m.
There is a lot to look forward to as the Gee-Gees find their place in the OUA. Their schedule can be found here and tickets for all the Gee-Gees home games, including the home opener on Saturday, Oct. 11, can be purchased at tickets.geegees.ca