Although Carleton College does not field a Division III women’s ice hockey team to compete against St. Olaf College, club sports carry the rivalry across the Cannon River to the ice.

St. Olaf’s Women’s Club Hockey team was formed during the 2022–23 academic year, offering a more recreational version of the sport. The team welcomes players of all experience levels, though members recommend that interested students know how to skate confidently. Practices are held Mondays and Wednesdays for 90 minutes, focusing on drills and small-area games. Music plays throughout practice, setting the tone. Sarah Oppenheim ’26 and Savannah Forrest ’27 said their go-to artist is Rihanna, with “Breakin’ Dishes” a team favorite.

In an interview with The Olaf Messenger, Heidi Deuel ’27 said that although “hockey is a big world, the people who play the sport create a strong bond with teammates,” something she found through club hockey. The team offers players the chance to compete without the demands of a varsity schedule.

Still, members say the competitive edge remains. Oppenheim said that even as a club team, you can “still feel the competition” among players, a dynamic that motivates the team during games.

When asked about their favorite part of club hockey, the players emphasized community. Forrest said she “made so many of her best friends” through the club and appreciates it as a way to step away from other campus responsibilities. Oppenheim said the team helped her build friendships outside her class year. Deuel added that “the club isn’t just about winning, but having fun with friends.”

The Women’s Club Hockey team will close its season with a home game against Carleton College on March 7 at 7 p.m. at Skoglund Ice Arena.