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Rookie of the Year

The 2019 Rookies of the Year - Grace Lunder (Loyola) & Clara Tomann (SJU)

Grace Lunder - Loyola

Grace had more to do with the Loyola program taking the step forward it did than any other player this season, and there were several who could make that claim. But having such a strong presence in goal gave our team a margin for error that made everyone able to breathe; When we weren't at our best, we knew Grace would be, and when we had to pick her up, she still was playing pretty well in those games, too. Her performance at the DVCHC Tournament carried us to the championship game and to the brink of winning it, and her personality throughout the year made it so our team didn't have any pressure as we sought goals like that. Grace was a transformational player to our team, and that's the type of new player every team should be proud to have.

Clara Tomann - Saint Joseph's

Clara came in this year and immediately took a leadership role on the team. Not only did she excel on the ice but she helped bond a mostly brand new team. On the ice she played center for us. She was one of our leading scorers and encouraged every single woman on the ice to play their hardest. She also actively sought to give others on ice opportunities. Off the ice she brought positivity and energy to every single practice and game and showed support for all of her teammates. I know she will continue to be a great asset to the team on and off the ice.

Nominees

Emily Fields - Montclair State

Emily has never played ice hockey before. Her determination and enthusiasm made her a team favorite during games and practices. She  has worked  extremely hard to improve her skating and hockey knowledge
Despite her lack of experience she became a regular player for us and even scored a few goals and assists
She is extremely deserving of this award

Cassie Gravelle - Rowan

In just the second semester, Cassie lead the team in points and quickly established herself as a top player in the conference.

Lily Warshaw - Towson

It was a pleasure working with Lily this season. Her bubbly personality and infectious smile is guaranteed to pep you up. Her biggest attribute on the ice is her speed. She is gritty and works hard every shift. She finished the season as one of our top points leader on the team. I look forward to having her back next season.

Hannah Pinheiro - UPENN

Hannah was a fantastic addition to our roster this season, helping to anchor our blue-line with her hybrid style of play. She can be counted on in all game situations. From game changing back-checks to scoring key goals, Hannah was a difference-maker all season long. She is a strong player with a keen eye for the game. Hannah will continue to contribute above and beyond her 7 goals and 4 assists this season.

Grace Roberto - Villanova

Grace Roberto is one of those teammates that radiates positivity. As a freshman she joined the team as a player who was ready to play and e/ager to improve. She is one of the most reliable teammates on and off the ice. As a defenseman, it is reassuring to know that Grace is supporting the play no matter where it is. She fit right into the defensive role that was needed due to the loss of Seniors. Grace became one of the key defensemen on the power play and on the penalty kill. Grace is very level headed and knows how to settle down a play and when to step up and be an enforcer when needed. Grace even stepped up and played goalie one game when our goalie could not attend. As a freshman, Grace so flawlessly balanced all of her activities besides ice hockey such as a Local Program Host for special Olympics at Villanova, Reaching Urban Individuals By Action and Love volunteer, church Lector, and a tour guide for Villanova. The team can already tell that Grace is going to make a lasting impact on the team and the league.

Shelby Weaver - IUP

After losing a few players after the fall semester, Shelby, aka Toby, rearranged her schedule so she could play with us.  She always played forward in her career, but when we asked her to play defense for us, she said “Sure! I’ve never played it before, but I’ll figure it out.”
Shelby only played five games with us, but in those five games, she really helped lift the team and the other players’ spirits with her ability and knowledge of the game. 

Elise Bossert - Lafayette College

Elise came out as a junior this year after previously playing high school hockey. We didn't realize what an asset she would be. She has been integral in adding to our short list of defensemen and has been so involved and upbeat about the team!

Paige Coon - Slippery Rock

Paige attended every practice and every game even when she was injured and couldn't play. Her positive attitude throughout the season helped encourage the rest of her teammates to work just as hard and not give up.

Anna Faulks - UVA

As our only freshman joining the team this season, Anna has had a huge impact on our team, scoring goals and helping us win games throughout the season. With 4 goals and 3 assists in 6 games, Anna has had a very positive impact on our lineup.