A Comeback Fueled by Experience
Rachel Llanes, a San Jose native who spent a decade mastering the ice, is preparing to step back onto the professional stage in the Professional Women's Hockey League.
Her career spans nine pro seasons, an Olympic appearance, stints in the Canadian Women's Hockey League, the National Women's Hockey League, and overseas in China, where she contributed to the Kunlun Red Star roster.
After a hiatus focused on mental health, Llanes transitioned into coaching, becoming the first female head strength and conditioning coach for the San Jose Barracudas, a role that sharpened her leadership and communication skills.
Now training as a free agent, she eyes the league's upcoming San Jose expansion team, hoping to blend her physicality and veteran savvy with the league's fresh energy, while inspiring players from non‑hockey towns.