Northland tabs Rider as school’s first women’s coach

Northland has named former Neumann coach Kelly Rider the school’s first women’s hockey head coach.

The school announced in May that it was adding a women’s hockey program for the 2016-17 season.

Rider, a former Quinnipiac player, coached Neumann to a 6-17-2 record in the 2013-14 season. Last season, she worked as a coach and skating instructor at the Albany (N.Y.) Academies.

“I am proud of Northland’s dedication to their students and investment in athletics, specifically the hockey programs,” Rider said in a statement. “I know future women’s hockey players will feel the same way. I’m excited to get started and to lead a competitive and passionate women’s hockey team that will experience success on and off the ice.”

Said Northland athletic director Kim Falkenhagen: “Kelly is an enthusiastic and focused coach who has grown up around all levels of hockey. She is knowledgeable and focused and will bring success and awareness of our women’s hockey program.”