Rae Mayer Returns to National Festival
Rae Mayer, a sophomore forward for the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs, has earned a second invitation to the USA Hockey Women’s National Festival, a testament to her rapid rise in the sport and her status as one of the nation’s most promising collegiate talents.
The festival, scheduled for August 2 through 9 in Lake Placid, New York, gathers 46 of the country’s top college players who will be evaluated for a chance to compete against Canada in a three‑game series slated for August 12‑15 in Richmond, British Columbia.
Mayer’s impact as a freshman was immediate; she ranked third on the Bulldogs with 21 points, contributed three power‑play goals and sparked a six‑game scoring streak that helped the team climb in the standings.
Coaches and analysts note that her consistent offensive production and ability to generate chances on the power play make her a key prospect for the national team selectors.
Beyond individual accolades, Mayer’s presence underscores the growing strength of the UMD program, which has seen a steady influx of talent and coaching expertise that positions the Bulldogs as a competitive force in women’s college hockey.
The upcoming series against Canada will be broadcast live, giving fans a chance to see Mayer and her teammates battle on the ice in a high‑stakes matchup that could shape the next chapter of her collegiate career.