Four Buckeyes Win Postseason Honors in the WCHA
Four Buckeyes Win Postseason Honors in the WCHA: Celebrating Excellence in Women’s Hockey
The Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) is widely regarded as one of the most competitive and prestigious conferences in women’s college hockey. Each year, the league recognizes players who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and performance throughout the season, and this year, the Ohio State Buckeyes have emerged as a major force in the WCHA, with four of their players receiving postseason honors. These accolades not only highlight the individual brilliance of these athletes but also underscore the growing dominance of Ohio State’s women’s hockey program, which has become a powerhouse in recent years.
In this article, we take an in-depth look at the four Buckeye players who earned postseason honors, celebrate their remarkable achievements, and explore the significance of these awards in the context of Ohio State’s success in the WCHA. Each of these players has contributed immensely to the team’s outstanding performance, and their recognition is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Ohio State Women’s Hockey: A Growing Power in the WCHA
Over the past decade, Ohio State’s women’s hockey program has made tremendous strides, becoming one of the top teams in NCAA Division I women’s hockey. Under the leadership of head coach Nadine Muzerall, the Buckeyes have risen to national prominence, consistently competing for conference titles and NCAA tournament berths. Their success has been driven by a combination of talented recruiting, strong team chemistry, and a commitment to excellence on and off the ice.
The WCHA, one of the most competitive women’s hockey conferences in the nation, is known for its high level of play and the caliber of talent it produces. The conference includes several powerhouse programs, including the University of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and the University of North Dakota. For Ohio State to earn postseason honors in such a competitive environment speaks volumes about the team’s talent and the impressive growth of the program.
In the 2022-2023 season, Ohio State finished near the top of the WCHA standings and earned a bid to the NCAA tournament, where they continued to demonstrate their potential as one of the top programs in the nation. The recognition of four Buckeye players with postseason honors is a reflection of the individual excellence that has fueled the team’s success.
The Four Buckeyes: Who Are They?
The Buckeyes who earned postseason honors in the WCHA represent a diverse set of players who have each played a pivotal role in Ohio State’s success. Their individual accolades highlight their unique contributions to the team’s performance throughout the season. Here is a closer look at each of the four players:
1. Paetyn Levis – WCHA Player of the Year
Paetyn Levis, a senior forward for Ohio State, was named the WCHA Player of the Year for the 2022-2023 season, one of the most prestigious individual honors in women’s college hockey. Levis’ performance throughout the season was nothing short of spectacular, and her award is a reflection of her exceptional skills and leadership on the ice.
Levis finished the regular season with impressive stats, including 24 goals and 22 assists, making her one of the top point producers in the conference. Her ability to score and create plays for her teammates made her a dual threat, and she consistently delivered in big moments. Whether it was a game-winning goal or a key assist, Levis was always involved in the most crucial plays for the Buckeyes.
Her leadership as a captain was also a key factor in Ohio State’s success this season. Levis’ ability to rally her teammates and maintain a high level of play under pressure was evident throughout the season. Her two-way play, combined with her offensive output, made her a truly complete player and one of the most dominant forces in the WCHA.
In addition to her Player of the Year award, Levis was also named to the WCHA All-Conference First Team, solidifying her status as one of the top players in the league. Her contributions were critical to Ohio State’s success, and she played a vital role in their pursuit of a WCHA championship and NCAA tournament bid.
2. Andrea Braendli – WCHA Goaltender of the Year
Andrea Braendli, Ohio State’s standout goaltender, was named the WCHA Goaltender of the Year, a well-deserved honor for one of the most consistent and dominant goalies in the conference. Braendli’s performances in net were a major factor in the Buckeyes’ success, as she helped anchor one of the league’s most formidable defensive units.
Throughout the season, Braendli posted an impressive 1.91 goals-against average (GAA) and a .926 save percentage, both of which ranked among the best in the WCHA. Her ability to make clutch saves in key moments kept the Buckeyes in games and allowed the team to capitalize on offensive opportunities. Braendli’s poise and leadership in goal were critical in Ohio State’s pursuit of both a conference title and a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
Braendli’s award is a testament to her consistency and skill between the pipes. She made numerous key saves throughout the season, and her ability to stay calm under pressure allowed Ohio State to remain competitive in one of the most difficult conferences in the nation. Her work ethic and determination to improve have made her one of the top goaltenders in the country, and her success this season is a reflection of her exceptional talent.
3. Megan McCarthy – WCHA Defensive Player of the Year
Megan McCarthy, a senior defenseman for Ohio State, earned the prestigious title of WCHA Defensive Player of the Year, further solidifying Ohio State’s defensive dominance. McCarthy’s play on the blue line was crucial in shutting down opposing teams’ offenses and setting the tone for the Buckeyes’ defensive play.
McCarthy finished the season with impressive numbers, totaling 6 goals, 20 assists, and a +21 plus-minus rating. Her ability to contribute offensively while being a stalwart defensively made her one of the most well-rounded defensemen in the WCHA. McCarthy’s hockey IQ, vision, and ability to break up plays in the neutral zone were key assets for Ohio State, and she consistently played against the opposing team’s top forwards.
Her strong physical play, combined with her leadership on the ice, helped the Buckeyes establish one of the most formidable defenses in the league. McCarthy’s ability to shut down high-scoring teams and provide key contributions on the power play and penalty kill made her an invaluable asset to Ohio State. Her defensive play was a key reason why the Buckeyes were able to compete at such a high level throughout the season.
4. Tatum Skaggs – WCHA All-Conference Second Team
Tatum Skaggs, a junior forward for Ohio State, earned a spot on the WCHA All-Conference Second Team, recognizing her impressive offensive contributions throughout the season. Skaggs has been one of Ohio State’s most consistent forwards, known for her speed, offensive creativity, and ability to create scoring chances.
Skaggs finished the season with 15 goals and 20 assists, ranking among the team’s top scorers. Her ability to create scoring opportunities for both herself and her teammates made her a key offensive contributor. Skaggs’ physicality and net-front presence were also significant factors in Ohio State’s success, particularly on the power play, where she was often involved in creating chances in front of the opposing net.
Skaggs’ recognition on the All-Conference Second Team is a testament to her consistent play and ability to perform at a high level, even in the face of tough competition. Her continued growth and development as a player make her an important part of Ohio State’s future success.
The Significance of These Honors for Ohio State
The recognition of four Buckeyes with postseason honors in the WCHA is a testament to the team’s depth and talent across all areas of the ice. From Paetyn Levis’ scoring prowess to Andrea Braendli’s goaltending excellence, Megan McCarthy’s defensive contributions, and Tatum Skaggs’ offensive dynamism, these players have been integral to Ohio State’s success this season.
These honors are significant not only for the individual players but also for the program as a whole. They reflect the strength of Ohio State’s women’s hockey program and its rise to the top of the WCHA. The Buckeyes have become a force to be reckoned with in the league, and the recognition of these four players is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent that defines the team.
Moreover, these honors help raise the profile of Ohio State’s women’s hockey program, making it an increasingly attractive destination for top recruits. The success of these players on a national stage only strengthens the program’s standing in the collegiate hockey landscape, and it sets the stage for continued success in the coming seasons.
