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Sophomore goalie Alise Riedel played a crucial role in the women’s hockey team’s climb from ninth to third place in the MIAC.

St. Thomas recorded a seven-game winning streak in January and February, and Riedel has recorded five shutouts this season.

“It’s always nice to get the win but getting the shutout just makes it a lot better,” Riedel said.

Coach Tom Palkowski said that Riedel has been pushing herself and improving throughout the season.

“I think she’s got unlimited potential,” Palkowski said. “When she puts her mind to it and wants to work, she’s about as good as there is around.”

Senior captain Meghan Parker said Riedel is an integral part of the team.

“She’s kept us in a lot of (games), and we wouldn’t have won if we didn’t have her,” Parker said.

Riedel was chosen as Women’s Hockey Player of the Week on Jan. 31. This is the second time in two seasons that she has won this MIAC award.

“It’s good to get recognized for doing well,” Riedel said. “It’s always fun to get your name on the big screen at school.”

The team has been working hard and is trying to remain focused on its own game play heading into the playoffs.

“We’re trying to not focus on what team it is and play our best game… not anyone else’s,” Parker said.

Palkowski gives the team credit for its strong work ethic.

“Each and every year we try and bring in kids to kind of fill the roles and mix well with the upperclassmen,” Palkowski said. “So far, this is probably one of the teams that gets along off the ice as well as on.”

Terese Quarberg can be reached at quar3707@stthomas.edu.