University of Minnesota Athletics
Women's Hockey Wins Inaugural Game in Ridder Arena
10/19/2002 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
"It was an exciting day for us," said Head Coach Laura Halldorson. "Definitely historic for our program. Hopefully it's a sign of great things to come in Ridder Arena."
Junior Jerilyn Glenn scored the first-ever goal in Ridder Arena history at 4:16 of the first period, single assist to Noelle Sutton. That would be all sophomore goaltender Jody Horak would need as she recorded her fifth shutout of her career stopping 20 Huskie shots.
Minnesota took a 2-0 lead into the first intermission after freshman Natalie Darwitz scored her sixth goal of the season at 17:45. Darwitz was the first star of the game tallying a goal and two assists.
"There was a lot of anticipation and excitement today," said Darwitz. "It was unbelievable to see the band, the crowd, friends and family in the new arena. It doesn't get any better than this."
The Golden Gophers lit the lamp three times in the second period on goals by freshman Allie Sanchez at 6:22, freshman Krissy Wendell at 8:40, and 2002 WCHA Player of the Year Ronda Curtin notched her first of the season on the power play at 18:00. Minnesota was 2-6 with the extra player on the night while SCSU was 0-5.
Minnesota added to the rout in the third period. Senior Gwen Anderson tallied her first of the year at 10:42 followed by Kelly Stephens' marker at 14:24 on the power play. A short-handed goal by La Toya Clarke capped the scoring at 16:40.
Minnesota travels to Columbus, Ohio next weekend to take on the Buckeyes of Ohio State.
