The Indiana University women's ice hockey team is completing a remarkable transformation, shifting from a student‑run club that began in 2020 to an officially recognized Division II member of the American Collegiate Hockey Association.
Joining the ACHA gives the Hoosiers access to a higher level of play and a set of standardized regulations that many club programs lack, opening the door to matchups against powerhouses such as the University of Michigan, Ohio State and the University of Illinois.
A New Competitive Chapter
The team’s roster reads like a story of personal growth; captain Sydney Miller, who started as a beginner, has risen to lead the squad, while senior international student Katherine Leung joined the program to try a new sport and found a supportive environment.
Coach Dillon Frechen, a career mentor at the Kelley School of Business, took the helm in spring 2024, bringing a business‑focused perspective to the team's development and helping coordinate practice schedules amid limited ice time.
Practice time is constrained by the Frank Southern Ice Arena, which shares its rink with other teams and closes from March through September, forcing the squad to travel to Columbus or Indianapolis for summer sessions.
Despite these logistical hurdles, the program’s inclusive policy welcomes players of any skill level, fostering a culture where newcomers like Isabella La Bella, who initially expected to join a men's team, can thrive.
The broader landscape of women's ice hockey is also evolving, with the launch of the Professional Women’s Ice Hockey League in 2024 and the U.S. Women’s National Team’s gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics underscoring expanding opportunities.
Looking ahead, the Hoosiers are eager to compete, build camaraderie and develop leadership skills, confident that the new ACHA Division II status will amplify both their competitive edge and personal growth.