Miami, OH - As the Miami University RedHawks hockey team approaches the midpoint of the 2025-26 season, Head Coach Anthony Noreen has been evaluating the team's progress. Noreen, now in his second year at Miami, is focused on establishing a winning culture and improving the team's performance in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC).
Last season, Noreen's first at the helm, served as a "reset" for the program, with an emphasis on establishing standards and defining the team's identity. Despite an underwhelming 3-19-2 record overall and a winless conference record, the RedHawks made strides in developing a strong team culture. This involved fostering hard work, discipline, and a commitment to being great teammates.
This season, Noreen's efforts appear to be paying off, as the RedHawks started with a promising 5-0 record. Although they have experienced some setbacks within the NCHC, Noreen remains confident in the team's intensity and belief. He emphasizes a relentless approach, stating, "We are going to be all in full speed, 100 miles an hour, pedal to the metal to make sure we're doing everything possible".
Noreen has implemented upgrades across all aspects of the program, including sports science, recruitment, and player development. He also stresses the importance of academics, requiring all players to attend every class and sit in the front rows. Additionally, community involvement is a key component of Noreen's program.
A significant roster turnover occurred to set the foundation for Miami's future. Noreen sought players who wanted to be part of a special rebuild at Miami, even if it meant choosing the program over more established ones. He believes that the players chose Miami to be part of something special.
While the RedHawks still face challenges, particularly in their offensive output and goals against, their special teams have shown improvement. Graduate student forward and team captain Ryan Sullivan has played a key role in driving the culture change.
Noreen's previous coaching experience includes a successful tenure with the Tri-City Storm in the United States Hockey League (USHL), where he was the winningest coach in franchise history. He led the Storm to two Anderson Cups and earned Coach of the Year honors twice. Noreen also has experience with USA Hockey, including serving as the U-18 head coach for the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and winning a gold medal at the 2018 World Junior A Challenge.
As Miami enters the second half of the season, Noreen's focus remains on continuing to build a strong culture, developing talent, and achieving success in the NCHC.
