University of Minnesota Athletics
Offensive-Minded McMillen Set for Senior Year
10/8/2015 12:00:00 AM | Women's Hockey
By Hannah Barnes, Athletic Communications Student Intern
MINNEAPOLIS - Milica McMillen scored the Golden Gophers' first goal of the 2015-16 season last weekend when she gave Minnesota a 1-0 lead over Penn State, scoring her 22nd career power-play goal in the team's season-opening 2-0 victory.
The St. Paul, Minn., native and Breck School alum already ranks among the top-scoring defensemen in Gopher women's hockey history and is poised to anchor the Minnesota blue line with another All-American effort as a senior.
McMillen ranks sixth in program history in scoring among defensemen with 93 career points, while ranking third in program history among defensemen with 36 career goals.
"I like to shoot," McMillen said. When asked to describe her style of play, she quickly responded, "Offensive."
"I try to get at least a couple shots on net each game," McMillen added. "Shooting, being aggressive, and keeping the puck in the zone are key."
Along with her talent on the ice, McMillen also brings leadership skills to the team. A frequent volunteer with M.A.G.I.C. initiatives, McMillen is known for her commitment to community service and charitable activities.
Alongside junior captain Lee Stecklein, McMillen is the most veteran player on the blue line this season and will help mentor the younger defensemen, including freshman Sophie Skarzynski.
"We all have something to say, and we all listen to each other," McMillen said of the defensemen's approach, a system perfect for helping the newcomers to get acclimated to the collegiate game. "I think our chemistry is really good. We talk a lot on the bench and in between periods. It's a relaxed atmosphere."
McMillen hopes the team's chemistry and skill will lead to another national championship coming home to Minnesota, but she's focusing on enjoying her final season competing in Maroon & Gold.
"The first three years went by way too fast, so I just want to soak this year in," McMillen said. "The main goal is to enjoy every minute of it.
"I just look forward to seeing how our team is going to develop together and how successful we can be together, both on and off the ice."
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