No. 6 Penn State attempts to keep its unbeaten start intact this weekend when it travels to Newark, Delaware, for a two-game nonconference matchup with the Blue Hens. The series opens at 6 p.m. Friday and at 2 p.m. Saturday, both streaming on FloHockey.
The Nittany Lions, holding an undefeated record, are coming off back-to-back sweeps of then-No. 9 St. Lawrence and Vermont, outscoring the teams 16-6 in that stretch. Their early-season form has been defined by balanced scoring, depth across all four lines and solid defensive structure.
Senior forward Tessa Janecke continues to be one of Penn State’s most dynamic playmakers. Her quick release and ability to create turnovers in the neutral zone have set up consistent scoring chances for the Nittany Lions. Janecke’s strong two-way presence has been a major factor in the team’s control of possession through its first four games.
Forward Tessa Janecke (15) stands during the Penn State women’s ice hockey game against St. Lawrence in Pegula Ice Arena on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025 in University Park, Pa. The Nittany Lions beat the Saints 3-0.
Matt Cropp
Defenseman Leah Stecker added a goal and two assists in Penn State’s two wins over Vermont. Stecker was named AHA Defenseman of the Week after a three point performance.
Delaware, holding a 1-3-0 record, in its inaugural Division I season, earned its first program win against Holy Cross.
Freshman forward Francesca Barresi led the way in the team’s first Division I game, scoring the Blue Hens’ first and only goal in their inaugural game. Barresi has quickly become one of Delaware’s key offensive players. Her skating and awareness make her a central figure in the Blue Hens’ developing lineup.
Fellow freshman forward Katelynn Charlton leads the team in goals with three while adding one assist. Charlton was vital in the team’s first victory against Holy Cross.
Special teams could also play a significant role this weekend. Penn State’s power play has been productive, converting opportunities at a strong rate, while the penalty kill has limited opponents’ chances. Maintaining discipline and taking advantage of man-advantage situations will be key factors for the Nittany Lions as they look to continue their dominance.
Goaltender Katie DeSa has anchored Penn State’s defense through the first four games, posting strong early numbers, holding a .903 save percentage and a 1.50 goal-against average, while facing limited high-danger chances. The team in front of her has allowed just six goals this season and continues to excel in clearing rebounds and maintaining puck possession.
Goalie Katie DeSa (35) gets ready to pass the puck during the Penn State women’s hockey game against Mercyhurst at Pegula Ice Arena on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, in University Park, Pa. The Lakers beat the Nittany Lions 3-2.
The weekend series marks the first meeting between Penn State and Delaware. With conference play arriving, the Nittany Lions can maintain their sharp start and continue building momentum against a fresh opponent.
A strong showing on the road would further solidify Penn State’s position as one of the nation’s top programs and give the team confidence as AHA play continues.
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