Emma Pieper, a promising goaltender from East Grand Forks Senior High, has made a significant decision regarding her future in hockey by committing to Bemidji State University. As she prepares to enter her junior season, Pieper's commitment comes as a welcome relief, allowing her to focus on her performance without the added pressure of college recruitment.
The 5-foot-5 netminder announced her decision over the weekend, expressing her satisfaction with finalizing her college choice early in the year. "It's like a relief off my shoulders," Pieper remarked, noting that the recruitment process can often take longer for goalies compared to other positions. This proactive step is expected to help her maintain focus and reduce stress throughout the upcoming season.
During her recruitment, Pieper received interest from four different colleges, but it was the combination of Bemidji State's picturesque campus and its supportive coaching staff that ultimately swayed her decision. "Their campus is super pretty; it's on the lake, it's smaller. And their culture is really good, they're all close together," she explained. Pieper also appreciated the open communication style of the coaching staff, which she felt was crucial for her development as a player.
Bemidji State's women's hockey program is under the guidance of head coach Amber Fryklund, who took the reins in April 2024 after a decade-long tenure as part of the coaching staff. Pieper described Fryklund as approachable and straightforward, qualities that she values in a coach. "She's really funny, she's easy to talk to, and she's very straight up with you. I feel like she’s someone that if she wants something, she’s going to really go get it, and that’s what you need as a head coach," Pieper noted.
Last season, Pieper shared goaltending duties with teammate Reese Kvasager, appearing in 12 games. She concluded the season with a 3.10 goals-against average, an .898 save percentage, and one shutout, contributing to the Green Wave's overall record of 15-10-1. The team reached the Section 8A final before being eliminated by Warroad, and Pieper is determined to enhance her skills this season, particularly in tracking, puck play, and rebound control. "(My goal) is to play very consistent, good, high-paced hockey. Just keep working and getting better," she stated.
Pieper's summer was equally eventful, as she earned a spot on the U.S. Under-18 Women’s Select Team for a three-game series against Canada held in Richmond, B.C. from August 12-15. Although she did not see in-game action, the experience was invaluable. "That was a really cool experience. It was really fun to be with the girls, and the coaches were good. It was high-level hockey, too," Pieper reflected. Her selection was a result of her impressive performance at USA Hockey's Women’s National Festival in Lake Placid, N.Y.
Interestingly, Pieper is not the first player from East Grand Forks to join the Beavers. Mak Langei, the new head coach of the Green Wave, previously played for Bemidji State, serving as team captain during her senior year. However, Pieper emphasized that Langei did not influence her decision, stating, "I think she just wanted me to choose what was best for me." As she embarks on her collegiate journey, Pieper is excited about the opportunity to compete in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA), a league known for its competitive nature and rich history, having produced 23 national champions since 2000. "It's the best league in the nation," Pieper concluded, looking forward to the challenges ahead. Last season, Bemidji State struggled with a 6-27-3 record, but Pieper's commitment may signal a bright future for the program.
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