In Dartmouth's 3-2 win over Harvard University last Wednesday a game that Holdcroft said was "huge" and "exciting but nerve-racking" the goalie notched 27 saves, helping Dartmouth to its third victory over a top-10 opponent this season.
In the pivotal game, Holdcroft made many "momentum-changing saves," according to head coach Mark Hudak.
"She stood on her head multiple times," he said.
Co-captain Kelly Foley '12 said Holdcroft was a "spark of energy" in the Harvard game, inspiring the team to play better despite its tough opponent.
"She made some saves you never think she'll get to," Foley said.
Holdcroft's performance against Harvard was named as one of the Capital One Impact Performances of the Week, a prize that is often awarded to male athletes in major collegiate programs. Other winners included University of Michigan junior quarterback Denard Robinson, University of Alabama junior running back Trent Richardson and Northeastern University sophomore hockey forward Cody Ferriero, all of whom had impressive offensive performances over Thanksgiving week.
Holdcroft, who has a .934 save percentage this season, said she "was really surprised to win."
Hudak said Holdcroft leads by example on the ice, noting that she is more of a quiet but prominent presence, and "not a drill sergeant barking orders."
Lauren Kelly '14, who is Holdcroft's roommate, echoed Hudak, adding that "it's really a big deal when she speaks."
"Lindsay is not really vocal on the ice, so when she taps you on the pads and says, Nice play Wink,' or Good game,' you know it means something," Ali Winkel '14 said.
Although team members interviewed by The Dartmouth said they poke fun at Holdcroft for being soft-spoken and often mimic her quiet voice, players added that she is well-respected on the team.
"She brings an incredible focus to every game and practice," Hudak said. "She's got that fire to be great."
Foley added that Holdcroft is "very competitive and absolutely battles" during every game.
"Even in practice, she'll be in your face for the third and fourth rebound and won't let you score," Foley said.
Holdcroft is a "catalyst" for the team and pushes others to play better on ice, Winkel said. Holdcroft has been known to stay after practice, working on her form while the rest of the team is getting ready to leave the rink.
Hudak said Holdcroft is likely one of the most dedicated player on the team, calling her a "quiet leader."
"I've grown up feeling like having a strong work ethic is really important," Holdcroft said. "I think my parents instilled that in me."
Although Holdcroft is only 5'4", Foley said she is the strongest, fastest and best player on the Big Green squad.
"She's like [Boston Bruins' goalie] Tim Thomas," Foley said. "She's so small but plays so big."
Winkel added that Holdcroft's attitude on the ice is an asset as well.
"She stays composed and doesn't let things get to her," Winkel said. "She's a tough and strong player."
Holdcroft was invited to the United States National Goaltending Camp and the U.S. National Team tryouts over the summer. Hudak said the experiences of playing with such talented athletes helped instill a sense of confidence in the young goalie.
Foley, who first became good friends with Holdcroft at the national team tryouts, said Holdcroft was "the perfect girl" due to her showing on and off the rink.
"She's so friendly," Foley said. "She's really a big nerd. She's very smart, quiet and soft-spoken."
Winkel said Holdcroft is modest, noting that Holdcroft initially did not even mention the tryout invitations to her.
"Lindsay's one of the best people I've ever met," Winkel said.
Holdcroft carries her work ethic and composure with her off the ice as well, and plans to pursue a biology and psychology double major. Holdcroft is a member of Kappa Delta Epsilon sorority and participates in the Big Green Readers Program, a charity in which Dartmouth athletes volunteer to read to students at a local elementary school.
Holdcroft said her primary goal this winter season is for the Big Green to repeat its performance last season, when it qualified for the NCAA tournament after advancing to the ECAC finals.
