The future of the WVU’s hockey team is looking bright. Last month, A.J. Sturges was named head coach of the team. He is a second year doctoral student in the sport and exercise psychology program at CPASS.
Prior to arriving at WVU, Sturges earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in kinesiology from Michigan State University. He served as a head coach of a youth hockey team for one season while completing his master’s degree. Sturges is working to complete a second master’s degree at WVU in counseling psychology, as well as a Ph.D. in sport and exercise psychology.
“I choose WVU SEP program because I consider it to be the highest quality program in the country. I like the diverse experiences it offers,” Sturges stated.
He said that he draws on his experience in sport psychology everyday while coaching. “Having awareness of team dynamics as well as positive player development are important to me in my planning and approach to coaching,” Sturges explained. He focuses on effective communication while building confidence with the players.
“My goals for the team are to make hockey at West Virginia University an incredibly enjoyable experience for the players and the staff, as well as continue a high academic standard for the athletes. I want to promote this program nationally as an elite team in Division I club hockey, and encourage the growth of hockey in the state of West Virginia,” Sturges said.
The Mountaineers won their last game, 4-2 against Rochester Institute of Technology. WVU resumes their schedule on January 8, 2016 against Alabama. Learn more about the team.