Previewing the University of Vermont Catamounts.

The conversations I've had with people about this BC Hockey team over the course of the past few weeks have gone like this. I tell them I'm worried and all that..they reply with, "They'll be fine, they always play well this time of year". Last year, it was this very weekend where the guys got hot and didn't lose another game for the rest of the season, winning the coveted Beanpot, Hockey East championship, and eventually, the NCAA title. Anyone can do anything when they have confidence in themselves. That is what this club needs to try and develop tomorrow night vs Vermont. They need to get their swagger back. The Eagles have lost two in a row and three of their past four games but all hope is certainly not lost, especially with a victory tomorrow night. Last weekend was just full of defensive breakdowns, no continued offensive pressure, and poor special teams (especially the PP). Star defenseman Mike Matheson has missed three and a half games over the course of the past couple weeks and with him getting healthier day by day, I look for BC's defense to improve. Actually, no, it has to improve. Without Colin Sullivan (upper body), I expect that the staff will play 5 defenseman and maybe dress 6 (not sure about McMullen...either way he won't play). Defensive zone play has to become a priority for this team tomorrow night. No bad turnovers in the neutral or defensive zones and keep the Catamount offensive zone rushes to a bare minimum.

On the offensive side of things, the Eagles will go with some new lines, of which I cannot report to you tonight but be sure to check in tomorrow afternoon for them. I can't tell you the combinations but I can say that they were put together so that BC can have 3 scoring lines, not just two lines that can score and two that do nothing offensively. The offensive production last weekend was close to horrendous and the blame shouldn't go to the bottom 6 guys because their job is not to put up 3 goals per game. No. Some of BC's big guns like Mullane, Johnny G, and Hayes really struggled vs Maine and if they aren't scoring any goals, then well, this is a very average hockey team. Billy Arnold and Steven Whitney continue to play at a high level but with out the help of the other three, goals will be very hard to come by for this squad. One guy that I really hope starts to improve for tomorrow and Monday is Johnny G. We have seen what he can do when he is on but Maine completely shut him down last weekend. He made some good plays here and there but he just hasn't been himself. When he is playing like he was before the break, this is one of the top teams in the country. When he isn't, this is not a great hockey team. Plain and simple.

Tomorrow night's opponent, Vermont, is also in a bit of a slump as they have lost 5 of their last 6 games with the one win coming last Saturday night vs UMass. On the road in Hockey East this season, the Catamounts are 1-3-4 and in the overall standings, they currently sit in 8th place. Up front, UVM is led by senior Chris McCarthy (6-12-18) and sophomore Jacob Fallon (7-9-16). UVM ranks 9th in goals scored per game (2.25) and goals allowed per game (3.12) as freshman goalie Brody Hoffman is last in the league in GAA, giving up an average of 2.96 goals per game. I hope that BC learned their lesson last weekend when Maine came down here and beat them. Any team in Hockey East can beat any other team. BC had two really off nights last weekend and the Black Bears took advantage. That being said, I really hope that the Eagles are able to put together a full 60 minute game tomorrow before the big one on Monday. I think the return of Matheson should help the defense and special teams, the power play especially. In the end it doesn't come down to what UVM does. It comes down to the effort that BC brings to the table and if it is 100 %, then the chances for victory are high. If it isn't, well, you saw what happened last weekend.

Keys for BC-

1. Need to score the first goal. BC plays well when they have a lead. They don't play well from behind. This team isn't built to come from behind. They have got to find a way to get on the scoreboard first tomorrow night.

2. Have to find a way to finish chances. There were so many grade A chances for the Eagles last weekend and they rarely capitalized. That needs to change this weekend.

3. Finish periods strong. I don't know the exact numbers but it appears to me that this team is giving up a lot of late period goals. They gave up two vs Maine last weekend, one vs UMass, and one vs UNH. I'd like to see them finish periods a bit stronger.

Scouting Vermont-

Pairwise Rank- Not Ranked

Hockey East rank- 8th

Leading Scorer- Chris McCarthy

Power Play rank-8th

Penalty kill rank-10th

Best Wins- vs Union, vs Providence

Worst Loss- Penn State

Go Eagles.

 Previewing the University of Vermont Catamounts: A Comprehensive Overview

The University of Vermont (UVM) Catamounts, with their distinctive green and gold colors, are a prominent presence in the world of collegiate sports. Competing in the America East Conference, the Catamounts boast a diverse range of athletic programs that draw fans and student-athletes alike. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the world of UVM athletics, previewing the University of Vermont Catamounts' sports teams, their history, achievements, and what fans can expect in the upcoming seasons. Additionally, we will address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a well-rounded understanding of UVM's sports scene.

UVM Athletics: A Legacy of Excellence

The University of Vermont, founded in 1791, is not only renowned for its academic excellence but also for its commitment to athletics. The institution's athletic teams, known as the Catamounts, compete at the NCAA Division I level, vying for success against strong regional and national competition.

A Glimpse at UVM's Sporting Legacy

UVM has a rich history in collegiate athletics, with achievements that span across various sports. Here are some notable highlights from UVM's sporting legacy:

Basketball Success: UVM's men's basketball team, in particular, has made headlines with its success. The Catamounts have made multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament and have been a dominant force in the America East Conference.

Hockey Tradition: Ice hockey is a source of pride for UVM, with the men's and women's teams participating in NCAA Division I competition. The men's hockey team, known for its passionate fan base, competes in the competitive Hockey East conference.

Soccer Excellence: UVM's men's and women's soccer teams have a strong tradition of success in the America East Conference, consistently competing at a high level.

Skiing Dominance: UVM boasts one of the most successful collegiate skiing programs in the nation, with numerous NCAA championships to their name.

Track and Field: UVM's track and field athletes compete in a variety of events, showcasing their skills in both indoor and outdoor seasons.

UVM Catamounts Sports: What to Expect

Now, let's take a closer look at some of the key sports offered by the UVM Catamounts and what fans can anticipate in the upcoming seasons:

Basketball: Both men's and women's basketball teams are expected to be competitive in the America East Conference, with a focus on making deep postseason runs.

Ice Hockey: UVM's men's and women's ice hockey teams will continue to compete in the Hockey East conference, aiming for success on the national stage.

Soccer: UVM's soccer programs, men's and women's, will seek to excel in the America East Conference and qualify for NCAA Tournament play.

Skiing: UVM's skiing teams will continue to showcase their dominance in collegiate skiing competitions, vying for national championships.

Track and Field: Track and field athletes at UVM will compete in various events, with the goal of achieving personal and team records.

UVM Athletics Facilities

UVM's commitment to athletics is reflected in its state-of-the-art athletic facilities, which provide support and resources for its student-athletes. Some notable facilities include:

Patrick Gymnasium: This facility hosts basketball and volleyball games, providing an electric atmosphere for fans attending games.

Gutterson Fieldhouse: Home to UVM's ice hockey teams, this arena features a rich history and passionate fans who create an unforgettable game-day experience.

Virtue Field: The field is the home of UVM's soccer programs and provides top-notch playing surfaces for both men's and women's soccer.

Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center: This center serves as a hub for UVM's skiing and cross-country teams, offering world-class facilities for training and competition.

FAQs About UVM Athletics

Let's address some common questions about UVM Athletics to provide a deeper understanding of the program:

Q1: How can fans support UVM Catamounts' sports teams?

A1: Fans can support UVM athletics by attending games, purchasing team merchandise, and following the teams on social media. Ticket information for games can be found on the official UVM Athletics website.

Q2: Are UVM Catamounts games broadcasted or streamed for remote viewing?

A2: Yes, many UVM Catamounts games are broadcasted on television or streamed online. Information on where to watch can be found on the official website or through conference and network partners.

Q3: Are there opportunities for students to get involved in UVM Athletics, even if they are not athletes?

A3: Yes, UVM offers various opportunities for students to get involved in athletics through intramural sports, sports clubs, and volunteer positions in sports administration.

Q4: What role do alumni play in supporting UVM Athletics?

A4: UVM alumni often contribute to the Catamounts' athletic programs through donations, attending games, and mentoring current student-athletes. Their support helps sustain and enhance UVM Athletics.

Q5: How does UVM Athletics balance academic and athletic commitments for student-athletes?

A5: UVM places a strong emphasis on the student-athlete experience, providing academic support and resources to help athletes excel in both their studies and sports.

UVM Athletics, embodied by the UVM Catamounts, represents a tradition of excellence in collegiate sports. From basketball games at Patrick Gymnasium to the electrifying atmosphere of Gutterson Fieldhouse during hockey matchups, there's much to look forward to in the world of UVM sports. As the seasons progress, fans can anticipate thrilling games, fierce competition, and the pursuit of championships. UVM's commitment to both academic and athletic success makes it a unique and prestigious institution in the realm of collegiate sports, and the Catamounts continue to be a source of pride for the university and its passionate fan base.