McCann named women’s ice hockey coach

Beth McCann has been named Salve Regina’s head coach for women’s ice hockey, bringing 15 years of experience as a collegiate coach to the reigns of the program.

“We are thrilled to welcome Beth to the Salve women’s ice hockey family,” said Colin Sullivan, director of athletics. “Her wealth of experience and track record as a head coach will clearly be an asset to our program.”

McCann founded the University of Rhode Island’s club ice hockey program and has served as its only head coach since 1999. She directed all program activities, including budget, recruiting, game and practice preparation and schedule, supervision of assistant coaches, monitoring academic progress of student-athletes and fundraising.

A two-time American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) coach of the year, McCann coached her Rhody squads to nine titles during 11 years of participation in its regional league, the Eastern Collegiate Women’s Hockey League. They also had nine ACHA final four appearances.

McCann’s daughter, Murphy, is entering her senior season as a goalie on the Salve Regina field hockey squad.

The women’s ice hockey team opens its 2014-2015 NCAA varsity schedule hosting College of the Holy Cross on Friday, Nov. 7 at St. George’s School in Middletown.