Loyola University Hockey Team Overview And History

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Loyola University, a Jesuit institution located in Chicago, Illinois, has a rich history of athletic excellence, including its hockey team. As a member of the NCAA Division I, the Loyola Ramblers hockey team has been competing at the highest level since its inception in 1966.

The team has undergone several transformations over the years, including changes in conference affiliations, coaching staff, and facilities. Despite these changes, the Loyola Ramblers have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, both on and off the ice.

Early Years (1966-1980)

The Loyola University hockey team was established in 1966, with the first game played on February 11, 1967. During its early years, the team competed as an independent program, scheduling games against other colleges and universities in the region. In 1970, the team joined the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA), which provided a more formal structure for competition.

Joining the CCHA (1980-1992)

In 1980, Loyola University joined the CCHA, marking a significant milestone in the program's history. As a member of the CCHA, the Ramblers competed against top-tier programs, including Michigan, Michigan State, and Ohio State. During this period, the team experienced moderate success, including several winning seasons and appearances in the CCHA playoffs.

Transition to the Mid-American Collegiate Hockey Association (1992-2001)

In 1992, Loyola University left the CCHA and joined the Mid-American Collegiate Hockey Association (MACHA). The MACHA provided a more regional focus, allowing the Ramblers to compete against teams from the Midwest and surrounding areas. During this period, the team experienced some successful seasons, including a conference championship in 1997.

Return to the CCHA (2001-2013)

In 2001, Loyola University rejoined the CCHA, marking a return to the top level of collegiate hockey. As a member of the CCHA, the Ramblers competed against some of the nation's top programs, including Michigan, Michigan State, and Notre Dame. During this period, the team experienced some ups and downs, including a few winning seasons and appearances in the CCHA playoffs.

Joining the Big Ten Conference (2013-Present)

In 2013, Loyola University joined the Big Ten Conference, marking a significant shift in the program's history. As a member of the Big Ten, the Ramblers compete against some of the nation's top programs, including Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, and Minnesota. The team has experienced some successful seasons, including a Big Ten Championship in 2018.

Coaching Staff

The Loyola Ramblers hockey team has had several notable coaches throughout its history. Some of the most notable coaches include:

• Bill Hogan (1966-1975): Hogan was the first head coach in Loyola University hockey history, leading the team to several winning seasons and appearances in the CCHA playoffs.
• Jim North (1975-1985): North took over as head coach in 1975 and led the team to several successful seasons, including a conference championship in 1982.
• Paul Pooley (1985-1995): Pooley, a former NHL player, coached the Ramblers to several winning seasons and appearances in the CCHA playoffs.
• Mark Mazzoleni (1995-2005): Mazzoleni, a former Loyola University player, coached the team to several successful seasons, including a conference championship in 1997.
• Steve Smith (2005-2013): Smith, a former NHL player and coach, led the team to several winning seasons and appearances in the CCHA playoffs.
• Mark Mazzoleni (again) (2013-Present): Mazzoleni returned as head coach in 2013 and has led the team to several successful seasons, including a Big Ten Championship in 2018.

Facilities

The Loyola Ramblers hockey team plays its home games at the John J. Egan Athletic and Recreation Center, located on the university's campus. The facility features a state-of-the-art ice rink, seating for over 1,000 fans, and amenities such as a strength and conditioning room, athletic training room, and locker rooms.

Notable Alumni

Several Loyola University hockey players have gone on to successful careers in the NHL and other professional leagues. Some of the most notable alumni include:

• Bill Hoganson (1967-1971): Hoganson played in the NHL for several teams, including the Detroit Red Wings and Los Angeles Kings.
• Mike McHugh (1972-1976): McHugh played in the NHL for several teams, including the St. Louis Blues and Vancouver Canucks.
• Mark Mazzoleni (1981-1985): Mazzoleni played in the NHL for several teams, including the New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings.
• Pat LaFontaine (1981-1984): LaFontaine played in the NHL for several teams, including the Buffalo Sabres and New York Islanders.
• Doug Weight (1989-1993): Weight played in the NHL for several teams, including the Edmonton Oilers and New York Islanders.

Championships and Awards

The Loyola Ramblers hockey team has won several championships and awards throughout its history. Some of the most notable include:

• CCHA Championship (1982): The Ramblers won the CCHA championship in 1982, defeating Michigan State in the championship game.
• MACHA Championship (1997): The Ramblers won the MACHA championship in 1997, defeating Illinois State in the championship game.
• Big Ten Championship (2018): The Ramblers won the Big Ten championship in 2018, defeating Minnesota in the championship game.
• NCAA Tournament Appearances: The Ramblers have appeared in the NCAA tournament several times, including in 1982, 1997, and 2018.

Community Involvement

The Loyola Ramblers hockey team is committed to giving back to the community. The team participates in several community outreach programs, including:

• Youth Hockey Clinics: The team hosts several youth hockey clinics throughout the year, providing instruction and mentorship to young players.
• Charity Games: The team participates in several charity games each year, raising money for local organizations and charities.
• Community Appearances: The team makes several community appearances each year, including visits to local schools and hospitals.

Future Outlook

The Loyola Ramblers hockey team is committed to continuing its tradition of excellence on and off the ice. With a strong coaching staff, talented players, and state-of-the-art facilities, the team is poised for success in the years to come.

We hope you've enjoyed this overview of the Loyola University hockey team. If you're interested in learning more or supporting the team, be sure to check out their official website or social media channels.