The 2026 PWHL Draft: A Milestone for Women's Hockey
The 2026 Professional Women's Hockey League draft announced the selection of 59 former NCAA Division I women's hockey players, accounting for 82 percent of the total pool. The milestone underscores the league's deep connection to the college game and signals a new era of talent pipelines.
Penn State emerged as the most represented program, contributing seven picks to the field. Across the United States, powerhouses such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio State and Cornell each placed five athletes into the draft, reflecting the competitive depth of Division I women's hockey.
Caroline Harvey, a former Wisconsin captain and Patty Kazmaier Award winner, made history as the first defenseman ever chosen first overall by the Vancouver Goldeneyes. Her ascent from collegiate captain to top prospect highlighted the draft's emphasis on elite two‑way play.
All five Wisconsin skaters were drafted in the opening round, a testament to the program's sustained excellence. Former teammates Laila Edwards, Lacey Eden, Kirsten Simms and Vivian Jungels joined Harvey among the early selections, illustrating the Badgers' breadth of talent.
The draft also celebrated diversity of origin, with representatives from 19 different Division I schools. Notably, Cornell became the sole institution with four or more picks that failed to qualify for the 2026 NCAA tournament, adding a unique footnote to the event's narrative.