Muzerall leads Ohio State in Frozen Four final

Nadine Muzerall is back in Minnesota as the head coach of Ohio State's women's hockey team, leading them to the NCAA Women’s Frozen Four final for the fourth year in a row. Muzerall, a former star player for the Gophers and their all-time leading goal scorer, has made a significant impact at Ohio State since taking the coaching job in 2016. Originally from Ontario, Muzerall's return to Minnesota is a homecoming of sorts. She attributes her success to mentors from her Gophers days, including Laura Halldorson, who coached her and has remained an influential figure in her career. Halldorson even had lunch with Muzerall's family during this week’s events. Muzerall’s connection to the Gophers runs deep, including fond memories from her playing days. She recalls meeting her husband, Gophers football player Ryan Venturine, 25 years ago. The supportive relationships she built with her coaches, especially Brad Frost, have also played a key role in her development as a player and coach. Under Muzerall’s guidance, Ohio State has risen from a struggling program to a formidable competitor. The team reached its first Frozen Four in 2018, missing the Gophers that year. Ohio State's program has thrived through effective recruiting, including players from across Canada and the U.S. As they prepare for the championship on Sunday, Muzerall emphasizes the importance of connecting with her players. She aims to cultivate a supportive environment, reminiscent of the coaching philosophies she learned from Halldorson. Ohio State has faced top teams in past finals and will look to secure another victory against Wisconsin.