Sacred Heart climbing the ladder in NEWHA niche

Sacred Heart Athletics

Without a home for much of its existence, the Sacred Heart women’s hockey team is settling into a new conference — and thriving.

Although they are still classified as a Division 1 independent team by NCAA standards, the Pioneers are settling into their second season as a member of the New England Women’s Hockey Alliance — and the expectations for them are high. Prior to the season, the Pioneers were ranked No. 1 in the NEWHA’s rankings, receiving three first-place votes and 15 points overall, edging the St. Anselm College Hawks (14 points).