After much anticipation, the day has finally come. Division 1 hockey is back at RMU. It was a rousing scene on Saturday as sirens blared announcing the return of the RMU women’s and men’s hockey teams.

The teams received a police and firetruck escort as they arrived for their red carpet celebrity welcome. The teams made their way across the red carpet and to the stage where team captains and coaches made remarks to the masses. The RMU Pep Band kept the crowd energized throughout the day with the RMU fight song.

“I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to this community,” RMU Men’s Hockey Coach Derek Schooley stated while the crowd gave his team a roaring applause.

“There’s a lot of emotions going on, it’s definitely a special moment for everyone and to have everyone’s families coming from everywhere,” Senior women’s hockey player Mya Neugent noted. She would later score the first goal for the Colonials in their 6-1 victory over St. Anselm.

Students present at the red carpet festivities were very enthusiastic for the return of the Division 1 hockey, with some carrying signs showing their support. “We love RMU hockey,” one sign read.

RMU’s Chief Experience Officer and part-time faculty member Dr. John Locke said regarding the festivities, “I’m excited about what this means for the future and I’m excited to see the energy all season and beyond.”

This momentous occasion is one that students will look back on in a decade or two with fond memories and say, “I was there.”