Lancer’s
Head Coach Deanna Iwanicka was on the ice at tryouts this week, engaging with
our Lakeshore Lightning hopefuls and putting them through the paces. A true believer in grass roots development,
Coach Iwanicka worked with players aged 11-17, challenging them to be their
best while having fun within the process.
Players and coaches alike were offered a brief look into Deanna’s vision and goals for local players “local recruitment remains a priority; we want to keep our local talent here at the University of Windsor, it adds to our culture and everyone’s experience”.
Speaking of local talent, Lakeshore Lightning Alumna and currently University of Windsor Lancer team member Maggi Dewolf- Russ was recognized as the Windsor Lancer’s Super Sophomore. Maidstone native Ashley Maitre was named as an OUA All Star (as was Maggie Peterson, coach Iwanicka’s first signed recruit to U Windsor back in 2018).
More on Coach Iwanicka’s vision…
Upon joining the University of Windsor Lancers program in 2018, Coach Iwanicka created a five- year plan to build a championship program. A championship program defined by four pillars: graduate success, student- athlete experience, contributions to community (with a focus on female hockey), and team results. The Lancers 2021/22 season reflected their growth and Coach Iwanicka’s plan in action. The team had its best record (since 2018) and earned a home playoff position (the last time was 2016/17 season).
The Lancer team roster is made up of players from across Canada (including BC, AB, SK, MB, ON, and QC), while a focus remains on local recruitment.
The future of both the Lancer women’s hockey program and the Lakeshore Lightning/Essex Thunder partnership is bright. Stay tuned…