Wisconsin WomenS Hockey Celebrates Eighth National Championship, eyes Continued Success
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A banner commemorating the Wisconsin Women’s Hockey Team’s 2025 National Championship will be raised before the Maine Series on October 3rd, marking a meaningful moment for the program and its dedicated fanbase. The team recently unveiled its eighth NCAA championship banner, a testament to its sustained dominance in collegiate hockey.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Wisconsin Women’s Hockey team secured its eighth national title with a decisive 5-0 victory over Maine in their first home game of the season. This victory,achieved after winning the Baders on October 3rd – seven months prior – culminated in a long-awaited championship celebration. The banner will now hang prominently in the Laban Arena rafters, joining a storied collection representing years of success since 2025-26.
Edwards Leads the Way
Laila Edwards, a senior forward, played a pivotal role in the championship run, scoring two goals in the second game of a three-game defence. Edwards expressed her excitement about the banner raising, stating, “I think that last year we will be unbelievable, and I think it will be a little recognition… I think it’s too cool to raise a banner. Many alumni will come back. And I think ther’s an old team again.” However, she also emphasized the team’s focus on the present, adding, “But as soon as the puck throws up, we’ve turned the switch. We’ve got a new team this year. I’m really excited and see how we can follow last year.”
Did you know?-Laila Edwards’ versatility is key, as she’s transitioned to a defensive role this season.
Edwards’ performance extended beyond scoring, with contributions from Adela Epovalivova (one goal and one assist), Cassy Hall, and Vivian Jungles. Lacey Eden provided two assists, while junior goaltender Ava McNahgutan secured her second shutout in three games, saving 25 shots.
Adapting to new Roles and Maintaining Momentum
Edwards has transitioned to a defensive role, paired with Lanny Potter alongside Captain Caroline Harwe. according to a team official, “She was better tonight than she was there last Friday… She was more involved and played a much better game.” This adjustment is part of her development, gaining experience and influencing the game in new ways. Edwards herself noted the positive dynamic with her linemates, saying, “(Harvey and Potter) I think it’s all amazing athletes. They have a lot of different characteristics. I really enjoy playing… She moves and moves a lot, and it’s very reliable, and Lanny is unbelievable.”
Pro tip:-Keep an eye on the Edwards-Potter-Harwe defensive pairing; they’re shaping up to be a formidable force.
Epovalivova’s Impact and the Energetic Home Crowd
Adela Epovalivova has quickly become a key player for the badgers, demonstrating both skill and tenacity on the ice. One observer noted her difficulty to contain, stating, “Perhaps 5 -A -A -4, perhaps a generous listed person, it is tough to avoid Epovalivova ice.” She focuses on creating opportunities for her teammates, aiming to “find a good pass to score them.”
the atmosphere at Laban Arena was electric, with approximately 2,300 fans in attendance. Epovalivova, having played in front of similar crowds at the World Championships, felt right at home, stating, “It would be great if we could do it again. Yes,yes. It would be nice to win again.” The support from the crowd was palpable, with one player expressing gratitude, saying, “Oh, he was great. It was very good… I was happy to play the whole game. And when someone cheered you.”
Reader question:-How important is home-ice advantage for the Badgers? The energetic crowd at laban arena clearly provides a boost!
The Wisconsin Women’s Hockey Team is poised for another successful season, building on its championship legacy and embracing the challenges ahead.
