EDMONTON, Alta – The NAIT Ooks women's hockey team, led by their head coach, Brendan Jensen, takes on the Red Deer Polytechnic Queens this weekend in their home opener.

Last year, the season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Jensen believes the hiatus won't hinder his team, "I believe the team is ready to compete right from the first puck drop. These ladies have prepared themselves well throughout the long off-season and first month of practice! We're excited to be back!" Due to the pandemic, this season has been deemed a transition back to play with a reduced schedule, but Jensen is finding other ways to keep them going. "Practices have been very competitive, and everyone is ready to hit the ground running when we get into our non-conference schedule," says Jensen. 

The team has 12 players who have yet to suit up for a varsity game, but Jensen said that won't hinder the team, "we do have a great group of veteran players who should be able to help our younger players throughout the course of the season."

Jensen and the NAIT Ooks women's hockey team are excited to get back; he said, "we want to thank everyone, from the parents, alumni, and fans, for their support! We can't wait to have you back in the rink cheering us on."

The NAIT Ooks women's team will play their second home game on Saturday, November 20th, at 6:00 PM against SAIT.