Alex Gettens arrived at the University of Maine this summer with a clear mission: to transform the women's ice hockey program into a consistent contender.
Having spent years as an assistant at Colgate University and the University of Vermont, Gettens carries a track record of rapid improvement, including a 30‑9 record in his first season at Colgate.
His philosophy centers on building strong relationships with players while instilling an aggressive, dynamic style of play that emphasizes speed and forechecking.
The team’s roster is young, but the return of the top five scorers from last season gives the squad a solid foundation of experience and chemistry.
Gettens is excited about the upcoming season, noting that the program’s recent $50 million renovation of the Alfond Arena, funded by a $170 million gift from the Harold Alfond Foundation, will provide the modern facilities needed to compete at a higher level.
A New Chapter Begins
Director of Athletics Jude Killy echoed the coach’s vision, stating that the combination of elite coaching, upgraded infrastructure, and a talented roster could finally put the Black Bears on the path to their first conference championship game and NCAA tournament appearance.
The program’s history adds urgency: despite never having reached a championship game or earned an NCAA berth, the team finished seventh last season, and Gettens believes the new environment will change that narrative.