A new era for Nittany Lion hockey
Tessa Janecke has already etched her name into Penn State history as the program’s all‑time leading scorer in both the women’s and men’s games. Her relentless offensive output earned her a third‑overall pick in the 2026 PWHL Draft by Las Vegas, and the forward capped the season by helping Team USA capture gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics, where she also delivered the overtime winner at the 2025 World Championships.
Freshman Gavin McKenna arrived on campus with a quiet confidence that quickly turned into a breakout performance. He set nine program records, captured the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award, and finished the season with 51 points, the most ever recorded by a Penn State rookie. The centre’s 1.2 points per game average topped the conference and secured a second‑team all‑conference nod.
The ripple effect of their achievements is already being felt across the university’s hockey ecosystem. Athletic directors predict that more than ten Nittany Lions will hear their names called in the upcoming NHL Draft, while several teammates are expected to be selected in the Premier Hockey Federation draft as well.
Beyond individual accolades, the duo’s success reflects a broader surge in American talent development. With prospects like McKenna drawing comparisons to early‑career Connor McDavid, the depth of skill in the Big Ten is reshaping scouting narratives and giving coaches more reasons to monitor college games closely.
For the players who will follow, the message is clear: the path from State College to the professional ranks is now a realistic goal. As the draft day approaches, the excitement among teammates, coaches, and fans alike underscores a transformative moment for Penn State hockey.