Cornell University’s women’s hockey program has reached a historic milestone, as seven current student‑athletes have earned spots on the eligibility list for the 2026 Premier Women’s Hockey League draft. The cohort represents the largest group of Big Red players ever invited to the league’s draft combine, underscoring the program’s rising prominence on the national stage.
Cornell’s Largest Draft‑Eligible Cohort Yet
The selected group features three forwards, three defensemen and a versatile two‑way player, reflecting the depth and balance of Cornell’s roster this season. Each athlete brings a distinct skill set that coaches believe will translate well to the professional arena.
The 2026 PWHL Draft is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, at the historic Fox Theatre in Detroit, Michigan. The ceremony will kick off at 5 p.m. Eastern Time and will be open to ticketed fans who wish to witness the selections in person.
Tickets for the draft are currently on sale, offering supporters a chance to attend the event live. In addition to in‑arena attendance, the draft will be streamed live on YouTube and the PWHL’s official website, ensuring that fans across the country can follow the proceedings in real time.
The draft will be presented by Upper Deck, a longtime partner of the league that brings its renowned sports memorabilia expertise to the event. This collaboration highlights the growing commercial interest surrounding women’s professional hockey.
The unprecedented number of Cornell representatives signals a broader shift in the landscape of women’s hockey, where collegiate programs are increasingly feeding talent directly into professional leagues. As the sport continues to expand, initiatives like the PWHL draft will play a crucial role in providing pathways for elite players to launch their professional careers.