The 2026 Penn State women's hockey senior class concluded its collegiate careers with an impressive 113‑win record and four consecutive conference championships, a streak that propelled the program to its first Frozen Four appearance.
A Historic Draft Class
That achievement set the stage for a watershed moment in the professional arena, as the Premier Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) announced the 2026 draft results, revealing that a record seven Nittany Lions would join its rosters.
The PWHL, now in its fourth season, has broadened its footprint with new franchises in Las Vegas, Hamilton, Detroit and San Jose, while average attendance has surged by 70 percent since the league’s inaugural 2023‑24 campaign.
Among the draftees, Tessa Janecke, the all‑time leading scorer in Penn State history, was selected third overall by the Las Vegas franchise and subsequently earned an Olympic gold medal, cementing her status as a trailblazer for the sport.
Defenseman Leah Stecker, an alternate captain known for her shutdown play, landed at the Boston Fleet with the 27th overall pick, while forward Maddy Christian was snapped up 33rd by the Minnesota Frost, adding another offensive weapon to the league.
Goaltender Katie DeSa, celebrated as the most decorated net‑minder in program history, was chosen 37th overall by the Vancouver Goldeneyes after leading the NCAA with twelve shutouts during the 2025‑26 season.
The draft also highlighted depth, with Katelyn Roberts becoming the sixth Penn State player to surpass 100 career points, and Kendall Butze extending the program’s record for career points by a defenseman after being picked 48th by Las Vegas.
Mya Vaslet, a forward projected to anchor a strong third line despite injury setbacks, was drafted 66th overall by Hamilton, illustrating the league’s confidence in the program’s talent pipeline.
Coach Jeff Kampersal’s stewardship has transformed Penn State into a rising powerhouse, a development that the league’s expanding rosters and growing fan base continue to celebrate.