READING, Pa. – Matt Davies and Julia Beaven have been named assistant coaches of the Albright men's ice hockey team ahead of the 2026-2027 inaugural season. Davies and Beaven will work alongside head coach Jeff German as the team prepares for the beginning of season set to get underway in November.

Davies joins the Lions coaching staff after a four-year playing career at Alvernia playing as a defenseman. Appearing in 101 career games Davies compiled 48 points on 38 assists and 10 goals. As a part of the inaugural recruiting class, Davies would go on to earn UCHC All-Rookie Team honors, an All-MAC selection and was named Academic All-MAC.

As part of a brand-new program, he helped establish the culture, standards, and identity that laid the foundation for future success. That experience gave him a unique understanding of the leadership, accountability, and commitment required to build a competitive team. His experiences as both a player and leader continue to shape his approach as he begins his career in coaching.

Beaven joins Albright after an illustrious playing career at Alvernia University on the women's ice hockey team. She was a five-year member of the team appearing in 94 total games for the Golden Wolves.

During her time with Alvernia Beaven was named MAC Senior Scholar Athlete, four-time all-conference recipient, two-time MAC Defensive Player of the Year, five-time All-MAC Academic, five-time MAC Academic Honor Roll and concluded as the all-time leader in saves with 2,806 and wins with 36.

Following her collegiate career, Beaven joined the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation as a coach, working with U14 and U16 girls while also specializing in goalie development. She also served as a Prospect Analyst for Cohnhead Hockey, assisting with player evaluation and recruiting.

Albright men's ice hockey will make their home ice debut on Friday, November 6 against Stevenson at 7:00 p.m. serving as the team's first ever game. The team will play all their home games at Body Zone Sports and Wellness Complex.