Mercyhurst Lakers
Mercyhurst University, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, is known for its strong athletic programs, including their Division I hockey team, the Mercyhurst Lakers. Since its inception in 1999, the Mercyhurst Lakers women’s ice hockey program has seen unprecedented success, qualifying for the NCAA tournament 10 times and reaching the Frozen Four twice. This success can be attributed to the strong leadership and coaching of the team by head coach Michael Sisti.
Under Coach Sisti’s leadership, the Mercyhurst Lakers have become a powerhouse in women’s college hockey. Sisti, who took over the program in its inaugural season, has tirelessly worked to build a program that encompasses both excellence on the ice and in the classroom. His impactful leadership has not only created a winning culture within the program but also nurtured the personal growth and development of the players.
Sisti’s leadership style is one of positivity, hard work, and dedication. He believes in building a team that is united and focused on a common goal, both on and off the ice. This coaching philosophy has not only led to success on the scoreboard but also in the development of players as individuals.
One of the most notable impacts of Sisti’s leadership is the numerous players who have gone on to play professionally after their time at Mercyhurst. As of 2021, 27 former Mercyhurst Lakers have played or are currently playing in professional hockey leagues, including the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL) and the Canadian Women’s Hockey League (CWHL). Sisti’s commitment to developing players not only for their time at Mercyhurst but also for their future careers is a testament to his dedication to the program.
Another aspect of Sisti’s leadership that has greatly impacted the program is his emphasis on academics. The Mercyhurst Lakers women’s hockey team has consistently boasted one of the highest team grade point averages (GPAs) in all of Division I hockey, earning multiple academic awards from the NCAA. This focus on academics has not only led to well-rounded players but also has given the program a positive reputation within the university community.
But it’s not just Sisti’s leadership that has made an impact on the Mercyhurst Lakers program. Assistant coaches Jodi McKenna and Delaney Collins have also played crucial roles in the team’s success. Both former Mercyhurst players under Sisti, McKenna and Collins bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the coaching staff. Their passion for the game and commitment to the program have greatly contributed to the team’s success and the overall positive culture within the team.
Furthermore, Sisti’s leadership extends beyond the field and into the community. The Mercyhurst Lakers women’s hockey team has a strong presence in the Erie community, participating in various service projects and events. Sisti believes in giving back and instills this value in his players, creating a team that not only excels on the ice but also makes a positive impact off the ice.
In addition to the impacts on the Mercyhurst Lakers program, Sisti’s leadership has also made a mark on the overall landscape of women’s college hockey in the United States. He played an instrumental role in the formation of College Hockey America (CHA), a conference dedicated to women’s hockey that has now grown to include teams from six different states. Sisti’s leadership and vision for the growth of women’s hockey has helped expand the opportunities for players to compete at a high level.
The impact of Coach Sisti’s leadership on the Mercyhurst Lakers women’s ice hockey program cannot be overstated. Through his unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence, he has built a winning culture that has produced not only successful players but also successful individuals. His legacy at Mercyhurst will continue to inspire and shape future generations of players and serve as a benchmark for aspiring coaches in the world of women’s college hockey.
Topics: