Three standout players from the University of Minnesota’s women’s hockey program — Chloe Primerano, Abbey Murphy and Caitlin Kraemer — have made history by joining the Edmonton Oilers’ development camp, marking the first time NHL prospects have trained alongside elite female athletes in such a setting.
A Milestone for Women’s Hockey
The invitation, orchestrated by Oilers general manager Stan Bowman, was sparked after he watched the 2026 Winter Olympics women’s hockey tournament and saw an opportunity to blend the league’s resources with the rising talent of the sport.
During the camp, the three Gophers participated in on‑ice practices, attended briefings on NHL operations and engaged in team‑building exercises alongside Oilers prospects, creating a unique cross‑gender learning environment.
Primerano, who will return to Minnesota for her third season this fall, described the experience as “incredibly professional” and said the exposure to NHL‑level coaching and facilities offered a glimpse of what the next generation of women’s hockey could become.
Murphy, the second overall pick in the 2026 Professional Women’s Hockey League Draft by the Seattle Torrent, echoed the sentiment, noting that the camp’s competitive atmosphere helped her sharpen skills while gaining insight into the broader hockey ecosystem.
Kraemer, also a key contributor for Minnesota, highlighted the value of networking with NHL staff and prospects, emphasizing that the connections made could accelerate growth opportunities for female players across North America.
The initiative reflects a broader push to integrate women’s talent into traditional hockey development pathways, a move that both the Oilers and the Professional Women’s Hockey League hope will inspire similar programs league‑wide.