Previewing the Providence College Friars

This weekend, the Eagles will finish off their season series with the Providence College Friars with a game @ Schneider Arena on Friday and a home game on Saturday. In the only meetings between the two so far this season, BC defeated PC by a score of 4-1 on 12/6 @ Conte Forum. In that game, the Eagles outshot the Friars by a 30-17 margin and also recorded a power play goal. Since then, the Friars have stayed around the middle of the pack in Hockey East with some notable wins vs Maine, Lowell, and @ UMass. The big twist in this series is that the leading scorer for both teams is currently questionable for the game on Friday. For BC, forward Chris Kreider is down with the flu and for Providence, Sr Tim Schaller left last Fridays game vs NU with an undisclosed injury (He didn't play Saturday). If Kreider is not able to play for the Eagles, expect senior Tommy Atkinson to take his spot in the lineup and for the lines to be switched around. Senior goalie Alex Beaudry is currently the all time saves leader in Providence hockey history and has made the fourth most saves in Hockey East this season behind Chris Rawlings, Kieran Milan, and Joe Cannata. 

With Schaller most likely being out, the Friars will turn to forwards Ross Mauermann, who leads the team in points and Mark Bergland who has the third most points for the Friars this season. The Friars currently rank 9th in terms of total offense in Hockey East averaging just 2.70 goals a game and just 81 goals on the entire season. In terms of special teams, the Friars rank second to last in power play percentage with a 17% conversion rate. On the penalty kill, the Friars rank 5th in the league with a 80% kill rate this season. In their first meeting vs the Eagles, the Friars took five penalties but also recorded one power play goal. The Friars end the season with one of the tougher schedules in the country as they take on BC this weekend and get a home and home with Lowell to end the regular season next weekend. 

Injury Report 

BC- Chris Kreider could be out with the flu. Kreider did not practice on Thursday. We will wait to see what his status is. 

PC- Forward Tim Schaller is doubtful with an undisclosed injury suffered last Friday vs Northeastern. 

Players to Watch 

1. Ross Mauermann. Mauermann currently leads the Friars in overall points as he has recorded 8 goals and 14 assist on the season. 

2. Derek Army is fourth on the team in points and also recorded the lone Friar goal in their lost @ Conte Forum on December 6th. 

3. Drew Brown. Part of a pretty strong freshman class for the Friars. Second on the team in scoring in terms in freshman.

Keys for the Eagles 

1. In Kreider's absence, other guys are going to need to step up. If Kreider is out for Friday, look for guys like Steve Whitney, Pat Mullane, and Kevin Hayes to make big plays. 

2. Special Teams. The PK has been very solid as of late and the PP has recorded at least one goal in their last nine games. Let's hope it keeps going this weekend. 

3. The transition game. The Friars really like to try to clog up the neutral zone and prevent the Eagles from using all their speed in that area. Look for BC to try to win the battles in between the blue lines. 

Series Info 

1. BC leads the all time series vs Providence 103-45-12 and has also win the past nine meetings in the series. 

Notes

The BC senior class could pick up their 100th win this weekend if they are able to defeat the Friars twice this weekend. 

BC is tied with Colgate for most shorthanded goals this season with 11. 

Check into @bchockeyblog1 on twitter for updates during tomorrows game @ PC. 

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Previewing the Providence College Friars: A Deep Dive into College Athletics

When it comes to college athletics, few teams have left as lasting an impact as the Providence College Friars. With a rich history, a commitment to excellence, and a dedicated fan base, the Friars are a powerhouse in the world of collegiate sports. In this in-depth preview, we will explore the Providence College Friars, their storied athletic programs, their impact on the community, and answer frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive understanding of this institution's sports legacy.

A Glimpse into Providence College

Before we delve into the world of Friars athletics, it's essential to understand the institution that serves as their foundation:

Providence College: Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Providence College is a private Roman Catholic university known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. Founded in 1917, the college has a long-standing commitment to providing a well-rounded education that extends beyond the classroom.

The Athletic Legacy of the Friars

Providence College has a storied athletic history that spans multiple sports. Here are some of the key highlights of the Friars' athletic legacy:

1. Ice Hockey Dominance

The Providence College Men's Ice Hockey program is a powerhouse in NCAA Division I hockey. The team competes in the highly competitive Hockey East conference and has a history of success, including multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament. Their commitment to excellence has produced NHL talent and loyal fans.

2. Basketball Success

The Providence College Men's Basketball team, often referred to as the "Friars," competes in the Big East Conference. The program has a history of success, including memorable NCAA Tournament runs. The Friars are known for their passionate fan base and competitive spirit.

3. Soccer Excellence

Providence College boasts successful men's and women's soccer programs. The teams have achieved national recognition and consistently compete at a high level in the Big East conference. The commitment to excellence in soccer has produced MLS players and Olympic athletes.

4. Commitment to Student-Athletes

Beyond their on-field achievements, the Friars take pride in nurturing student-athletes who excel academically and contribute to the community. Providence College emphasizes the importance of character development and leadership skills, ensuring that their athletes are well-prepared for life beyond sports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let's address some common questions about the Providence College Friars and their athletic programs:

1. What is the significance of the Friars' mascot?

The Friar is the official mascot of Providence College, representing the college's namesake, St. Dominic. The Friar mascot is a symbol of the institution's Dominican heritage and commitment to service.

2. How do the Friars' athletic programs contribute to the college's community?

The Friars' athletic programs serve as a source of pride and unity within the Providence College community. They bring students, alumni, and fans together, fostering a sense of belonging and school spirit.

3. Are there notable alumni who have gone on to successful professional careers from Providence College?

Yes, Providence College has produced notable alumni who have achieved success in various fields, including sports, entertainment, business, and public service. Some alumni have gone on to have successful careers in the NHL, NBA, and MLS.

4. How do the Friars' athletic programs support student-athletes academically?

Providence College provides student-athletes with academic support services, including tutoring, study halls, and academic advising. These resources help student-athletes balance their academic and athletic commitments.

5. What facilities and venues do the Friars' athletic programs utilize for their competitions?

The Friars use state-of-the-art facilities for their athletic competitions, including the Dunkin' Donuts Center for basketball, Schneider Arena for ice hockey, and the Ray Treacy Track for track and field events.

The Future of the Friars

As Providence College continues to evolve and grow, the legacy of the Friars' athletic programs remains a cornerstone of the institution's identity. With a commitment to excellence, a focus on developing well-rounded student-athletes, and the support of a dedicated fan base, the Providence College Friars are poised to continue making a significant impact on the world of collegiate sports for years to come.