A new era for UMaine women's ice hockey
Alex Gettens has been appointed as the new head coach of the University of Maine’s women’s ice hockey program, taking the reins of a team that has steadily grown in competitiveness over the past decade.
Athletics director Jude Killy highlighted Gettens’ enthusiasm, his deep ties to the university, and the clear vision he brings for elevating the program both on and off the ice.
Gettens arrives after a stint as an assistant coach at Colgate University, where he spent two seasons refining his approach to player development, and a six‑year tenure at the University of Vermont that culminated in his promotion to associate head coach for the 2023‑24 season.
During the 2017‑18 season he returned to his alma mater, the University of Maine, to work specifically with goaltenders, a role that gave him an intimate understanding of the program’s current roster and culture.
A native of Concord, New Hampshire, Gettens earned a Bachelor of Science in community entrepreneurship from the University of Vermont in 2017, a foundation he says informs his coaching philosophy that blends strategic thinking with community engagement.
His early coaching career began in 2011 with the St. Paul’s School girls’ ice hockey team, where he led the squad to a New England Prep School Championship in 2015, showcasing his ability to build winning cultures from the ground up.
Now the eighth head coach in program history, Gettens steps into a role that carries the expectations of a proud tradition while promising fresh strategies and a renewed focus on excellence.