PLYMOUTH, N.H. – Four-time Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) men's ice hockey champion Ben Chipman '22 '23G was named interim head coach of the Panthers' women's ice hockey program, Director of Athletics Kim Bownes announced on Monday.
 
Chipman takes over for Mollie Fitzgerald, who opted to leave the sport last month.
 
A three-year captain on the men's team, Chipman helped lift the Panthers to four straight NCAA Tournament appearances from 2018-23, including just the second home game in the program's history last March.
 
"We are all so excited to have Ben joining our Athletic Department team," said Bownes. "His knowledge of and passion for Plymouth State is unrivaled. His years in the hockey world and desire to succeed are infectious."
 
Chipman has been a significant presence in the community during his time at Plymouth State. In addition to his success on the ice, he was involved with several campus organizations including the Student Business Advisory Council, Business School Corporate Sponsor Speaker, International Orientation Leader, and International Business Club. A four-time MASCAC Fall/Winter and Winter/Spring All-Academic Team member, he achieved President's List honors with a perfect GPA every semester.
 
"It has been a true honor to represent Plymouth State as a student-athlete for the past five years," said Chipman. "I am grateful for the opportunity to return. I look forward to providing the mentorship that will create success on the ice, as well as forge numerous opportunities away from it, to help the players maximize their potential as all-around student-athletes. It is important to me that they feel valued and supported in overcoming challenges; ultimately enhancing their overall experience at PSU. I would like to extend my gratitude to the selection committee and current players for believing in my abilities and giving me the opportunity to offer a progressive, new outlook for the program."
 
Chipman's coaching experience includes five years with Plymouth State Youth Hockey, as well as time with British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) and Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) players at the STIX Collegiate Cup Showcase last summer. He also spent two seasons coaching for the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities for Children in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.
 
Chipman becomes the seventh coach in program history. He takes over a team that went 3-19-1 last winter, including 2-13-1 in the New England Hockey Conference (NEHC), finishing one spot shy of the postseason. PSU opens the season at the University of New England on Oct. 28, ahead of the home opener against UMass Boston on Nov. 3.
 
"This team deserves the stability and consistency to showcase its true talents," added Chipman. "I couldn't be more excited to get started."