A Hall of Fame Induction
Sis Paulsen, a pioneering force in Wisconsin women’s hockey, is set to be inducted into the University of Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 2026, a tribute to her enduring influence on the program.
Paulsen first arrived in Madison as a player who also wore the coach’s hat, becoming the first coach‑recruited athlete in Badgers history and later the program’s first three‑time captain.
In 2000 she earned Most Valuable Player honors after finishing with a school‑record 130 points, and she was selected to the inaugural Western Collegiate Hockey Association first team, helping to cement a competitive culture that would lead to nine NCAA championships.
Despite standing just 5‑foot‑3, Paulsen played a physically demanding style, often logging 30 minutes per game and earning respect for her toughness and relentless work ethic.
Her mentorship extended to young talent such as Sara Bauer, fostering an inclusive environment that encouraged growth both on and off the ice.
After graduating with a degree in human development and family studies, she moved into coaching roles, serving as a graduate assistant before taking on responsibilities as equipment manager for the U.S. women’s national team, a position she held during the 2022 and upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics.
The leadership she displayed attracted new talent to Wisconsin and contributed to the program’s sustained excellence, a legacy that continues under the guidance of Mark Johnson, the Olympic gold‑medalist who assumed head coaching duties in 2002.
Paulsen’s professional journey also included a stint as director of hockey operations and equipment manager for the Badgers and later for the Minnesota Frost, where she continued to shape the next generation of players.
Her upcoming induction will be celebrated as part of the Hall of Fame’s recognition of individuals whose contributions have defined excellence in women’s hockey at the university level.