The UNF club hockey team at the University of North Florida has been around for three years. But this season is different. This year, the team has the opportunity to appear in the ACC Division III Championship Tournament for the first time in program history. 

To prepare for their playoff appearance, the team tried a couple of new tactics. They watched film of their potential opponents to see what the teams play-style’s look like. In their practices on the ice, the team has focused on power play and penalty kills. They have also put time into proper breakouts from the defensive to the offensive zone. 

“I think just our overall mindset will be ready to go and we’ll be ready to face any challenge or adversity that comes our way throughout the playoffs,” said goalie Matt Maroney.

The team has been working hard and is excited to show off their talent during the tournament. They hope to make a name for themselves during their first playoff appearance. 

If the team wins the tournament, the team will automatically qualify for nationals. Nationals will take place in March, specific dates to be determined, and will be located in Jacksonville.

The playoffs will be held in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The playoffs will occur from February 20 to February 22. On the first day of the playoffs, the team will face Roanoke. If they win, they will move on to day two, where they will compete against James Madison. Puck drops on February 20 at 10:15 pm for the first round of the tournament.

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