The 2026 Premier Women's Hockey League (PWHL) Draft delivered an unprecedented haul for Penn State, with seven Nittany Lions athletes hearing their names called — the most any NCAA program contributed to the event. The selections underscore the program's rise under head coach Josh Brandewy and signal a deepening talent pool in collegiate women's hockey.
Tessa Janecke: A Trailblazer
Tessa Janecke emerged as the centerpiece of the draft, becoming the highest‑drafted player in Penn State women's hockey history when PWHL Las Vegas chose her third overall. A three‑time Atlantic Hockey America (AHA) Player of the Year and Forward of the Year, Janecke capped her collegiate career as the program's all‑time leader in goals, assists and points. Her impact helped Penn State capture its fourth consecutive AHA championship and secure the school's first-ever Frozen Four appearance.
A Wave of Talent Across the League
The remaining six selections spread across multiple PWHL franchises, each bringing distinct achievements to their new teams. Leah Stecker, an alternate captain for the Nittany Lions, landed 27th overall with the Boston Fleet, while Maddy Christian went 38th to the Minnesota Frost, earning a two‑time All‑AHA nod. Goaltender Katie DeSa, a two‑time AHA Goaltender of the Year, was picked 37th by the Vancouver Goldeneyes after posting a program‑record 12 shutouts in a single season. Katelyn Roberts, the sixth player in school history to reach 100 career points, joined the New York Sirens, and defenseman Kendall Butze, the program's top‑scoring blueliner with a single‑season record of 28 assists, was drafted 49th by Las Vegas. Mya Vaslet completed the group at 66th overall to PWHL Hamilton.
Looking Ahead
The draft not only celebrates individual accomplishment but also reflects the growing competitiveness of women's professional hockey. With each Nittany Lion now poised to contribute at the highest level, Penn State's legacy continues to shape the future of the sport. As the newly minted professionals head to training camps and preseason rosters, the program's influence will be felt across the league, promising an exciting next chapter for both the players and the PWHL.