Harvard Women's Ice Hockey announced its incoming first-year class on Monday, revealing a quartet of talented newcomers who will join the program this fall.
A Global Talent Pool
The class features three international signings alongside a standout U.S. recruit, underscoring the program's expanding reach across the hockey world.
Hilda Pakarinen, a forward from Sweden, arrives after a standout season with SDE in the NDHL and SDHL, where she also captained her team during the 2024‑25 campaign and earned a spot in the Finnish National Team U18 camp the previous year.
Lindsay Stepnowski, hailing from South Glastonbury, Connecticut, brings a decorated résumé that includes back‑to‑back NEPSAC Player of the Year honors in 2025 and 2026, a gold medal with USA Hockey at the 2026 IIHF Under‑18 Women's World Championship, and a reputation as one of the most prolific scorers in New England.
Kate Stuart, a three‑sport athlete from Ontario, is celebrated as the program's all‑time leader in assists and is known for her playmaking vision and versatility on the ice.
Serra Yildir, also from Ontario, earned recognition for her work between the pipes with the Nepean Wildcats and for setting a long‑jump record at Valour in 2024, adding a unique athletic dimension to her profile.
Coach Laura Bellamy praised the recruits for their elite competition skills, high character and international experience, expressing excitement about how their varied backgrounds will enrich the team's pursuit of excellence.
The incoming class is expected to bolster Harvard's offensive depth and defensive reliability, while the diverse geographic roots of the players should strengthen the program's global connections and fan engagement.