The Crimson is now in Holland, a journey the squad earned by selling M&Ms last year. After returning on September 17, the team must gear up for a tough, 15-game schedule.

Like last year, Harvard's first Ivy contest is against Penn. Unlike last year, the game will be played in Cambridge.

"Our record is indicative of our leadership in the league," Penn Coach Anne Sage said. "You have to set high goals. To repeat as three-time champion would be nice. We're capable of winning a third."

Sage noted that Penn's JV program was strong last year, and will feed a number of players into the varsity ranks this season.

"We have the same potential as last year," Sage said. "Other teams will be after us. Being two-time champion adds another dimension to the way opponents deal with us."

And how does she view her team's chances against Harvard?

"Harvard plays a tough game of hockey," she said. "It's very difficult to win at Harvard."

Last year, Cornell joined Harvard in the bottom half of the league standings. But this year, the Big Red should be a big threat.

"We have a lot of offensive players remaining from last year," Cornell Assistant Coach Karla Griffin said. "In that respect, I think we'll be a lot stronger. I don't think people can count Cornell out this year. I think we will finish as one of the top two or three teams."