UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Penn State women's hockey head coach Jeff Kampersal announced the promotion of Ben Halford to become the programs new assistant coach for the upcoming 2023-24 season on Friday afternoon.
"Ben has been with us in a volunteer role" stated Kampersal. "He is calm and knowledgeable. He provides love for our goalies and provides a fresh prospective for our skaters. He prepares and works hard."
As a continuous asset to the team, Halford remains in Happy Valley after spending four seasons as the Nittany Lions' goaltending coach. Halford played an instrumental role in aiding Penn State to two CHA Regular Season titles, the programs first CHA Tournament title, and its first NCAA tournament appearance. Through his coaching, he's aided in Josie Bothun's CHA Goaltender of the Year award in 2020-21 and 14 CHA Goaltender of the Month award winners. In two of his four seasons, Halford has placed a Penn State goalie on the All-CHA First Team.
"I am extremely grateful and thankful for the opportunity to continue to work with our outstanding group of student-athletes and staff in a greater capacity" stated Halford. "Our program has grown exponentially in the prior four seasons, and I am excited to have the opportunity to continue to be a part of our team as we look to pursue even greater goals."
Prior to joining the coaching ranks, Halford spent time in five different NHL organizations over the course of his three-year pro career, which produced countless experiences that he draws from as he's worked to develop the next generation of goaltenders.
Prior to his professional career, Halford graduated from Princeton University, concluding a four-year career that included an ECAC title and NCAA Tournament Berth. Prior to Princeton, Halford attended Albany Academy (NEPSAC), before moving on to the EJHL (now the NCDC) where he led the league in save percentage and set numerous franchise records.
Tickets are on sale for the 2023-24 Penn State women's hockey season at Pegula Ice Arena. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit here 2023-24 season tickets.
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