The UNCW Ice Hockey season is kicking off this Friday, Sept. 8, at 10 p.m. The game will be held at the Wilmington Icehouse as the Seahawks face off against High Point University.

To begin, there are a couple of new things to cover concerning the team. For the first time ever, you can purchase your tickets online. If you purchase your ticket online, you will be able to skip the line at the door. Along with this, there is an online merchandise store for the very first time as well. Finally, the team is unveiling new jerseys for this upcoming season. You can check out the new look on the UNCW Ice Hockey Instagram.

The Seahawks have had an intriguing last couple of seasons. Since it is a club sport, the statistics and results of the games are not always kept to 100% currency. The Seahawk accumulated the most accurate portrayal of their prior records and statistics. After a 12-10-1 finish in the 2021-2022 season, the Seahawks looked to take another step forward in the 2022-2023 season. However, the 2022-2023 season was not as productive as anticipated. When it concluded, their final record would be 3-13-1. In the 2023-2024 season, the Seahawks are looking to bounce back and reclaim their upwards trajectory.

Here are the players to watch out for this season:

Center: Chris McGrath

McGrath is an experienced forward, coming into his fifth collegiate season. McGrath played two seasons at NCAA DIII Wilkes University. Now, he is entering his third season representing the Seahawks. McGrath has appeared in 20 recorded games for the Seahawks. In these games, he has produced 23 points. That breaks down to 15 goals and eight assists. McGrath plays a smooth and assertive style of hockey, looking to stretch the defense out to produce opportunities for himself and the rest of his line. The over one point per game forward will need to have a productive season to help the Seahawks on the offensive side.

Winger: Zach Shrock

Shrock is another returning player, who has appeared in 36 recorded games for the Seahawks over the past two seasons. Shrock has recorded 34 total points, 25 goals and nine assists. Shrock is also projected to be on the first line, alongside the previously mentioned McGrath. Shrock is a left-handed shooter, providing offensive pressure with varying shot angles. The southpaw stroke provides a good change of speed for the Seahawks attack. Shrock is looking to aid the Seahawks in having a winning season this year.

Defenseman: Nolan Tabraham

Tabraham joined the team before the beginning of last season, after playing for the Carolina Jr Hurricanes since the 2019-2020 season. Tabraham is projected to be one of the first line defensemen for the Seahawks for this upcoming year. In 16 recorded games, Tabraham would record seven total points, two goals and five assists. Generally, though, in hockey, defensemen will not be quite as statistically productive. Tabraham is a physical threat, bringing experience and brute to the Seahawk defense. Tabraham also excels at staying out of the Penalty Box, which is an essential and underrated skill, especially for a high-end defenseman. It is critical to stay on the ice during important moments. All in all, Tabraham will be extremely important to the Seahawk defense.

Schedule

The first 5 games of the season are below:

Sept. 8 – High Point University vs. UNCW Seahawks – 10 p.m.

Sept. 9 – High Point University vs. UNCW Seahawks – 10 p.m.

Sept. 15 – Millersville University vs. UNCW Seahawks – 10 p.m.

Sept. 16 – Millersville University vs UNCW Seahawks – 10 p.m.

Sept. 22 – UNCW Seahawks @ St. Johns Fischer – 7 p.m.

Right now, the Seahawks are scheduled to play 19 home games and 11 away games, not including varying tournament play. Let’s see how the season goes from here.