A Historic Draft Haul
The 2026 Premier Women’s Hockey League draft marked a watershed moment for Cornell’s women’s ice hockey program, as six alumni heard their names called across the opening rounds. The selections reflect a decade‑long investment in player development and signal the Big Red’s emergence as a pipeline for elite professional talent.
Grace Dwyer, a cornerstone of Cornell’s blue line, was drafted tenth overall by the Boston Fleet. Known for her defensive poise and leadership, Dwyer helped the Big Red capture two ECAC titles during her tenure, and her draft position underscores the league’s confidence in her ability to anchor a top‑tier defense at the professional level.
Avi Adam followed at the 24th spot, selected by the Montreal Victoire. Adam’s reputation as one of the program’s most complete forwards — combining offensive flair with relentless work ethic — earned him a spot among the league’s promising newcomers, and his draft placement reflects the Victoire’s desire to bolster their forward depth.
Mckenna Van Gelder, a consistent offensive contributor, was picked 52nd overall by PWHL San Jose. Her ability to generate scoring chances while maintaining a strong two‑way game made her an attractive prospect for the franchise, which sees her as a versatile asset in their attacking corps.
Ashley Messier, celebrated as one of the ECAC’s top defenders, landed at the 61st position with the Seattle Torrent. Messier’s shutdown skills and offensive contributions from the blue line made her a standout in college hockey, and her draft selection highlights the Torrent’s focus on defensive stability.
Georgia Schiff, one of Cornell’s premier offensive threats, was drafted 63rd overall by PWHL Detroit. Schiff’s knack for finding the net and creating scoring opportunities added a dynamic edge to the Big Red’s attack, and Detroit’s choice suggests they view her as a potent weapon in their forward lines.
Alyssa Regalado rounded out the group at the 68th spot, chosen by the Toronto Screptures. As a steady presence on Cornell’s blue line, Regalado’s reliability and defensive acumen earned her a place among the league’s emerging talent, and the Screptures will likely integrate her as a foundational piece of their defensive unit.
Looking Ahead
The six selections not only celebrate individual achievement but also reinforce Cornell’s commitment to advancing women’s professional hockey. With a strong developmental program and a culture that emphasizes both skill and character, the Big Red’s alumni are poised to make significant impacts in the PWHL, heralding a bright future for the university’s hockey legacy.