In Florida, where palm trees sway and the sun shines year-round, ice sports are far from the norm. Yet, at Florida Tech, the student-run club ice hockey program stands as a testament to passion and perseverance, bringing together a diverse group of students united by their love for the game.
Florida Tech Ice Hockey was established in Jan. 2003 by a dedicated group of students eager to introduce the sport to the university. Since then, the program has expanded significantly, growing to a record 31 players for the 2023-2024 season, achieving sell-out crowds for most home games, and making it to the playoffs for the first time.
No longer limited to playing in the local recreational league, the team now competes in the College Hockey South (CHS) Division III, part of the College Hockey Federation (CHF). This means facing off against teams from the University of Florida (UF), University of South Florida (USF), University of Miami (UM), Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), University of North Florida (UNF), Florida State University (FSU), Florida Atlantic University (FAU), and Rollins College.
The team has built a loyal following, packing the rink with 150 to 350 fans for home games, which are played at the Space Coast Iceplex in Rockledge, about 20 miles from campus. Florida Tech President John Nicklow has shown staunch support for the program, attending several games in his first year (2023-2024) and even performing the ceremonial puck drop during a game against UF.
The heart of Florida Tech Ice Hockey lies in its leadership and team culture. Team president Jake Medeiros, a senior majoring in construction management, is in his fourth year on the team and has played a crucial role in steering the club toward success.
“We are about working hard and playing hard. We work even harder in school than we do on the ice. Our whole culture is about going out there, having fun, and getting involved,” Medeiros said. “We are about creating a good family and making memories that will last forever.”
The team has fully embraced the philosophy of head coach Rob McIntosh ’16. “I want to make this program a place where my players want to be, even with practices at 11:45 p.m. and games at 11:00 p.m.,” McIntosh said. “Everyone has a role and something to contribute—every shift, every play, even if you do not touch the puck, you are a part of this team.”
McIntosh is in his fifth season as head coach of Florida Tech Ice Hockey. He joined the coaching staff in 2019 after playing on the team from 2011-2019.
“This has been such a special group to be a part of. I have been honored to go from being a player to becoming a coach. It is close to my heart, and I want nothing but the best for this program,” McIntosh said.
Balancing the competitive nature of ice hockey with creating a fun and inclusive environment might seem challenging, but the team has perfected it. “We make sure everyone gets time on the ice and feels included,” Medeiros said. “That includes off-the-ice activities too, like team barbecues, playing paintball, and watching football games together.”
A unique feature that distinguishes Florida Tech Ice Hockey from varsity athletics is that it is co-ed. Last season, three out of the 31 players on the team were women. “Not only are they our teammates—they are our sisters. They play full-contact and compete in games against other schools just like everyone else,” Medeiros said.
Sam Colliton, a senior majoring in general biology, is entering her second year on the team and loves it. “I never played hockey with men until I came to Florida Tech. I remember during the first tryout, I was so scared because I did not know what to expect, but it was a blast. The team was very welcoming, and I felt right at home on the ice,” Colliton said.
As a club sport, the team relies primarily on player dues and donations to support its operations. The team regularly collaborates with Florida Tech’s Panther Spirit Squad and local restaurant Chumley’s Depot for fundraisers. They also participate in annual campus giving traditions like 37 Hours of Giving and Relay for Life.
Students interested in joining Florida Tech Ice Hockey must try out. However, tryouts are primarily for assessing skill levels, and all players are welcomed onto the team, provided they maintain a 2.5 GPA or better.
Now entering his final season as a player of the team, Medeiros has his eyes toward the future. “My long-term vision is for Florida Tech Ice Hockey to become a full-time athletics program with scholarships and full funding—everything the varsity teams get. Just in the past four years, the program has grown dramatically, and I believe my vision is a very achievable goal.”
The future of Florida Tech Ice Hockey looks bright. With a rich history, growing popularity, and strong culture, the team is poised to become an even bigger part of the campus and local community. For those considering joining, Medeiros offers simple advice: “Just go for it. We welcome everyone, but be prepared for late nights, long road trips, and some of the most fun you will ever have.”
Details about Florida Tech Ice Hockey such as team history and recruitment can be found on the team’s website. The 2024-2025 season schedule can be found on the Florida Tech Athletics website.
