From Virden Empire-Advance
By Robin Wark
McAuley’s Darbi Poole helped Midland University finish in the top four at the American Collegiate Hockey Association Women’s Division I National Tournament.
The Fremont, Neb. School team fell to Minot (N.D.) State University 1-0 in the national semifinals. At the Marlborough, Mass. event, the Warriors beat McKendree University from Illinois, 4-1, in the quarterfinals.
“I enjoyed the intensity of playing against high-calibre girls as it was the biggest tournament I have ever experienced during my hockey career,” the daughter of Robin and Dana Poole said.
Poole joined the Warriors halfway through the school year from Michigan’s Aquinas College. The team was pleased to have her, and she quickly fit in.
“It was a seamless transition because of the type of student-athlete that Darbi is,” Midland University head coach Jason White said. “She understands our team culture of family and respect and is always there to support her teammates. Darbi is an amazing person that excels both academically and athletically and has made our program better since joining.”
A forward, Poole enjoyed a strong first season in the college ranks. At Aquinas, she scored seven goals and posted 16 points in 12 contests. Over 14 games with Midland University, Poole lit the lamp twice and had three points.
“Darbi is a natural goal scorer and has great hockey sense,” White said. “She has the ability to handle pressure in tight areas and find her teammates.”
Poole helped Midland University win its second ever conference championship. The Warriors racked up a program-high 27 wins.
“The hockey program was definitely a huge factor in attending Midland,” said Poole, an exercise science major. “I have enjoyed traveling to new states to play games and meeting new teammates and people in my classes. Along with the intense practices and games with a group of dedicated girls.”
A versatile athlete, Poole has suited up in women’s baseball for Team Manitoba. On the ice, she developed her game with the Yellowhead Chiefs AAA program. Her family has strongly backed her athletic endeavors.
“My family has always supported me throughout my whole hockey career and since moving away from home they are always a phone call away if I needed anything,” Poole said.
(Originally published at https://www.empireadvance.ca/local-news/poole-helps-midland-to-final-four-7051584)
