I don’t know, do I have some nasty B.O. or bad breath?

But after a few e-mail exchanges with several of the players, I finally figured out it wasn’t me—thank God—it was them.

The problem: They didn’t want any personal recognition. They are just too team oriented.

This attitude was instilled in the girls under the legendary coach Bill Cahill and a year after his tragic departure, that sentiment is alive among the team. Second year coach John Burke has continued to build on his team’s solidarity.

Team goals are all that matter, individual goals do not really exist. Anticipation about the move to Division I is there, but well-hidden as the women continue to stress their focus on this year.

The results have been nothing but spectacular if you’re a player, but if you’re a sports editor trying to create a hockey preview, it can be frustrating.

But while I explain my plight, I cannot help but express my immense respect for every player in this program. Their commitment to the school, the program, and especially to their teammates is unmatched given the competitive atmosphere created in a situation where players will not only be battling for playing time but for a roster spot.

They play for each other, and when individuals set aside their needs for the common good, the outcome is magic.

Teams often talk about bonding and how they are a family. This team is one in every sense of the word. While they are not the “Brady Bunch,” as goaltender Rosina Schiff said, they truly enjoy each other’s company.

And if the Engineers are to leave Division III as ECAC East champions, and possibly more, they will need to play like a family because the trials that await them in Division I are pleniful.

Trials they can only hope to conquer together.