University of Connecticut Athletics
Huskies announce 22-23 Team Awards
5/5/2023 11:51:00 AM | Women's Ice Hockey
STORRS, Conn. - The UConn women's hockey team have announced their team awards for the 2022-23 season. The honorees who were voted on by team members were recognized for their respective performances throughout the year which included moving homes to the new Toscano Family Ice Forum.
MVP - Tia Chan
Tia Chan was a key contributor for the Huskies this season. After missing a season due to playing in the Olympics for Team China, the Hamilton Ontario native never missed a beat, playing in 26 games for the Huskies and finishing with a 12-10-4 record. This season, Chan made 630 total saves with a 1.67 GAA and .935 save percentage.
Pat Babcock Award - Ainsley Svetek
Ainsley Svetek was a consistent leader and voice for the young Huskies team and defense. Playing in all 35 games for the Huskies, Svetek scored one goal dished out three assists for a total of four points. The Burlington, Ontario native finished the season with a +7 +/- and blocked a total of 60 shots.
Unsung Hero – Mackenzie Nicholas and Kate Thurman
Mackenzie Nicholas and Kate Thurman played a significant role this season being both leaders on the ice and off. Nicholas, a graduate student from Lake Worth Florida returned for her 5th year, and her presence was immediately felt with a young team comprised of mainly freshman and sophomores. Thurman entering her final year with UConn hockey made her presence felt on the ice, scoring seven goals with seven assists for 14 points. Thurman, one of the top faceoff members won 54% of the faceoffs she was a part of and finished the year with a +/- of +5 in addition to 15 blocked shots.
Most Improved - Riley Grimley and Kyla Josifovic
After playing in minimal games her freshman year, Riley Grimley was poised for a breakout year and solidified her spot in the lineup. Grimley finished her sophomore campaign with four goals and 10 assists for 14 total points. Freshman Kyla Josifovic was thrust into the lineup and made the most of every opportunity, getting better each game. The rookie finished with two assists and eight blocked shots on the defensive end.
Rookie of the Year - Brooke Campbell
Freshman Brook Campbell was a key contributor during her rookie campaign. The Essex, Ontario native finished the season with eight goals and five assists for 13 points. Campbell burst onto the scene during the 22-23 season, winning Hockey East rookie of the Week award three times, and was also named to the national rookie of the year watchlist. Not only did Campbell contribute with points, but she was also one of the Huskies most consistent players in the faceoff circle, winning 54% of the faceoffs she was apart of.
