Arcadia University is introducing men’s and women’s ice hockey programs this year, the latter led by Kelsey Koelzer, an African American woman and Horsham native, writes Frank Fitzpatrick for ThePhiladelphia Inquirer.

Twenty-four-year old Koelzer has been a pioneer in hockey for years. She played in several boy’s leagues before becoming a first-team all-American at Princeton. She was also the National Women’s Hockey League’s top overall draft choice and was named its all-star game’s MVP.

Now, she will break yet more new ground as the first coach of Glenside university’s new women’s ice hockey team when the team debuts in the 2021-22 season.

“To be able to provide more girls an opportunity to play at the college level should be amazing,” said Koelzer. “Hockey helped me get a degree from the best school in the country.”

She is planning to begin the recruiting process this October. The university is hoping her stature in hockey will help bring extra momentum to its new program.

“I’ve mentioned her to some people and they’re impressed. They all say, `Whoa, she’s your coach?’” said Brian Granata, Arcadia’s athletic director. “Her passion is impressive. She’s extremely humble, very mature.”

Read more about Kelsey Koelzer at The Philadelphia Inquirer by clicking here.