Chu, who is three quarters Chinese, had already visited China in her pre-Olympic tour.

“It was a great eye-opening experience,” Chu said. “I have Chinese traditions instilled in me, though I’m also very proud to be an American representing my country.”

When Chu found out that Team USA would not be heading to China, she had mixed feelings.

“I was disappointed, but I think it was probably the right decision,” Chu said. “There were a lot of risks, and I really appreciate that our health was the top priority.”

The trip cancellation was doubly disappointing for Chu and her Harvard teammates Angela Ruggiero and Botterill, who only days before had been narrowly defeated, 4-3, by Minnesota-Duluth in the NCAA Championship game.

With Botterill graduating, Chu will have to shoulder the burden of leading the Crimson’s top line.

Before last season began, Harvard coach Katey Stone watched Chu and Botterill together in practice. Stone quickly became certain the two would be linemates.

“I don’t know how to describe it,” Stone said. “You just have to watch it. They’ve got the sense.”

But while Crimson fans won’t be able to enjoy the Chu-Botterill magic next season, the Olympic Gold medalist is not worried about Harvard’s chances.

“When I say the future of Harvard hockey is in good hands, [Chu’s] sort of the epitome of that,” Botterill said. “She’s just a phenomenal person. What a pleasure to have the chance to play with her this year.”

Athough Botterill’s hockey career is far from over, she is never likely to play on the same side as Chu again.

“I think we’re both sad we only had that one season together, but at the same time I think it makes you appreciate it that much more,” Botterill said. “I think we just sort of knew where each other was on the ice. But what fun; we both just had a great time and fed off each other. I know she’s going to have an outstanding career from here on in.”

—Staff writer David A. Weinfeld can be reached at weinfeld@fas.harvard.edu.