A Historic Draft Milestone
The 2026 Premier Hockey Federation draft will be remembered as a watershed moment for the University of Connecticut’s women’s hockey program. For the first time, three Huskies were selected across the third and fourth rounds, marking a breakthrough that reflects the program’s growing stature on the national stage.
Tia Chan, the program’s all‑time leader in wins, save percentage and shutouts, was chosen in the third round by San Jose, one of four expansion franchises entering the league. Chan’s accolades include National Women’s Goalie of the Year, First Team All‑American honors and Hockey East Goaltender of the Year, underscoring her dominance between the pipes.
Kyla Josifovic, who served as team captain and appeared in all 39 games last season, was picked in the fourth round by Detroit. Josifovic posted career‑high numbers, becoming the first Husky to reach a 40‑point season since 2007‑08 and earning Hockey East All‑Star recognition for the first time in her career.
Megan Woodworth also earned a fourth‑round selection, going to Hamilton, the league’s newest member. Woodworth’s breakout year featured career highs in goals, assists and points, while her 41 blocked shots topped the forward group, highlighting her two‑way impact.
Future Faces of the League
The selections illustrate how UConn’s women’s hockey program is producing talent ready for the professional ranks. Each player brings a distinct skill set — Chan’s elite goaltending, Josifovic’s offensive versatility and Woodworth’s defensive reliability — that figures to shape the competitive landscape of the PWHL.
Fans and alumni alike are celebrating the milestone, viewing it as a validation of the program’s investment in facilities, coaching and recruiting. As the league expands, the Huskies’ presence promises to add depth and excitement to the professional game.