A New Era for Women's Hockey at Bradley
Bradley University announced this week that Madison Maloof, a longtime figure in the sport, will serve as the inaugural head coach of its new women's ice hockey program, slated to take the ice this fall.
The team is one of five new women's club sports the university is launching under the Premier Club Sports initiative, joining flag football, soccer, STUNT and women's wrestling, with the latter two slated for introduction over the next two years.
Craig Dahlquist, director of Premier Club Sports, praised Maloof's deep connection to the university and her proven leadership, noting that her passion for hockey and extensive playing background make her uniquely qualified to build a competitive program.
Maloof, who earned her degree at Bradley and currently works as a managing broker for Maloof Commercial Real Estate, began skating at age nine and has served as an assistant captain for the WCHL Division I Flatlanders, bringing both playing experience and strategic insight to the role.
University officials say the hiring reflects a broader commitment to expanding athletic opportunities for female student‑athletes, aiming to deliver a high‑quality experience that aligns with the school's academic standards and community values.
The upcoming season will mark a milestone for the Peoria campus, which hopes the new program will inspire greater participation and visibility for women's hockey in the region.