Northern Star: Mannon McMahon
10 goals, 15 assists through 30 games in 2023-24 season
DULUTH, Minn.- Entering this season, the UMD women had some huge skates to fill following the departure of their three captains. With the postseason in sight, it’s now clear that Mannon McMahon was the right woman for the job.
“It definitely was a little daunting, just knowing that it is such a big role and such a big opportunity,” says McMahon, who’s in her fifth season with the Bulldogs. “Just having that great support system that I have; it has been a lot easier.”
That support system includes co-captain Nina Jobst-Smith. “Honestly, having her to look up to and build a connection with, she really took me under her wing,” smiles Jobst-Smith. “I know she’s done the same for a lot of players. She’s just super kind and that way and has always focused on making her teammates better.”
“I think it’s pretty easy to rally our group,” noted McMahon. “Everyone is so passionate in there.”
Growing up in Minnesota, McMahon looked up to hockey players throughout her childhood. So, to have kids cheer her on at Amsoil Arena reminds her of just how far she’s come. “I mean, that’s probably one of my favorite parts about gameday is seeing all their little arms stick out to give us high fives as I’m running through is, it’s so cool,” beamed McMahon. “Just hearing them say ‘Go Bulldogs’ or like, ‘Go Mannon’, it’s so inspiring, and just something that really centers you and grounds you and reminds you why you’re doing what you are doing: To go out and to play for those little kids who want us to win.”
Although this will be McMahon’s last season with the Bulldogs, her impact on the program will last for years to come. Her irreplaceable memories aren’t going anywhere, either.
“I’m going to remember so much about playing here,” McMahon reflected. “This is such a special place. I’m going to remember the culture; I’m going to remember the people. I’m going to remember waking up every day and just coming to the rink and laughing with my teammates. My advice to anyone who would want to be a Bulldog would just be to soak it all in, but also to put everything that you have into it. So that’s your mind, your heart, your soul, your body, like whatever it is, like fully immerse yourself in this place in this culture and good things are going to happen.”
McMahon and other outgoing Bulldogs will be honored at UMD’s Senior Day on Saturday, February 17 against St. Cloud State.
