Schenectady, N.Y. (August 18, 2005) – After competing against the Union women's hockey team for most of her career Jessica Link has now joined the Garnet and White, being named assistant coach. Head coach Tim Gerrish made the announcement prior to heading off to the U.S. Hockey Women's National Festival in Lake Placid. Link replaces former assistant Shannon Kennedy.
“I am extremely excited about coming back to my home area and joining the staff at Union,” said Link. “I look forward to working with Tim and Jackie (MacMillan), who are two names that have been associated with women's hockey for years, and adding to the rising success of the program.”
The Clifton Park native, who attended Shenendehowa High School, returns home after graduating from Brown this past year with a B.A. in Business Economics along with a host of athletic accomplishments. She was a two-time All-ECACHL selection and four-time All-Ivy honoree. Link was also named to the ECACHL All-Academic Team three consecutive seasons. She finished fifth on Brown's all-time scoring list with 157 points (83g, 73a) in 124 games.
“We are extremely happy to have Jess aboard,” stated Gerrish. “She has an extensive hockey background, playing at Brown and with Team USA, which has given her International experience.” Link was a three-time member of the U.S. Under-22 National Team.
Having played in the ECACHL for four years Link will prove to be a great asset to the Dutchwomen program. “Jess will be a great assistant for us,” said Gerrish. “She brings a high energy level and a wealth of hockey knowledge. She also knows the league and the players in the league having competed in and against them for the past four years which will aid our program with scouting.”
Link's responsibilities with the Dutchwomen will include working with the forwards on the ice, recruiting, and talent evaluation as well as budget management. She will also assist with day-to-day practice planning and overseeing the team's academic progress.