Bradley, Rieker lead lady icers in Blue-White game

On Dec. 7, 1996, the White team defeated the Blue team, 6-3, at the ice pavilion in the inaugural Penn State women's ice hockey Blue-White game.

The contest marked the first time the Lady Icers competed in a game situation. This is the team's first year at the University.

Ellen Zajko had a goal and two assists for the Blue team.

Approximately 100 fans showed to watch the game.

"We appreciated the turnout," Bradley said. "You have to support your friends when they do something off-the-wall."

Women's hockey may seem like an off-the-wall idea, but it is common at many other colleges and universities. The team sees the Blue-White game as a step in the right direction for the fledgling program.

"We showed a lot of potential. It was a great learning experience," said goalie Kathy Beckford, who had 26 saves for the Blue team. "I've seen some progress. Everyone's excited about playing."

"Only five or six girls have played before. The rest are new to the game," Scalamogna said.

The Lady Icers are relying on the experience of assistant captain Bradley to help lead the team.

"She's the most experienced player we have," said Scalamogna. "She's the only one that's played college hockey before. Her experience has helped her become a team leader."

The Lady Icers also will rely on the leadership of Rieker, the captain, and the other assistant captain, Ellen Zajko. The Lady Icers are in the process of scheduling more opponents, including Rutgers and Chatham College.

The Lady Icers next game will be at 10:15 p.m. Feb. 1 at the ice pavilion. They will take on the Harrisburg Rockets, a women's club team.