A New Era for Syracuse Women's Ice Hockey
Syracuse University has named Brian Idalski as the new head coach of its women’s ice hockey program, filling the vacancy left by Britni Smith, who stepped down earlier this spring.
Idalski arrives after a single season in the Premier Women’s Hockey League with the Vancouver Goldeneyes, where he was relieved of his duties after the team’s performance dipped.
His coaching résumé also spans three seasons at St. Cloud State University, a head‑coaching stint with the 2022 Chinese Women’s Olympic Team, and a ten‑year run that ended at the University of North Dakota, where he compiled a strong record in the NCAA ranks.
The Orange finished the previous campaign with a 15‑18‑4 overall record, going 10‑11‑3 within the Atlantic Hockey America conference, a showing that left the roster with a clear opening for new leadership to reshape the team.
Players now have the option to enter the transfer portal, a move that could bring fresh talent to a program seeking to rebound after a modest season.
Implications for the Program
Idalski’s blend of professional and international experience is expected to raise the competitive bar for Syracuse, which has historically leaned on NCAA pipelines to build its roster.
The hiring also underscores the growing visibility of women’s hockey in North America, as the Orange join a league ecosystem that includes the PWHL, a league that recently expanded its footprint across the continent.