Sarah Fillier, a talented hockey player, recently made history by being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) draft by the New York team. Fillier, known for her scoring abilities at Princeton University and her success on the international stage, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to play in New York. She mentioned how being close to Princeton feels like coming home due to the relationships she built there.
Fillier has had a whirlwind few weeks, having completed her senior thesis and final exams at Princeton while also preparing for the draft. Despite taking six years to graduate, she has a valid reason for the delay – she took two years off to compete in the 2022 Olympics, where she won a gold medal with Team Canada. Her exceptional performance earned her the MVP title at the 2023 world championships.
The experience of playing in different leagues and adapting to various playing styles during her time off for the Olympics has prepared Fillier for the professional league. She believes that her international experience, where the game is physical and fast-paced, will be valuable in the pro league. Fillier’s selection as the No. 1 pick reflects her potential to bring a dynamic and scoring presence to the New York team.
The PWHL recently concluded its inaugural season, which was a success in terms of attendance and excitement. Fillier shared her enthusiasm for the league and expressed how she watched every game and was thrilled to see other players living their dream. New York earned the top draft pick due to their last-place finish in the previous season. They struggled to score goals, ranking near the bottom of the league in this regard. Fillier’s offensive skills and creativity will be crucial in addressing this issue and providing consistent scoring for the team.
New York’s new head coach, Greg Fargo, is highly regarded by Fillier. Having played against him for four years in the ECAC, she knows firsthand how tough of a coach he is. Fillier believes that Fargo’s presence will contribute to building a strong foundation for the team. She recognizes the challenges of the league but is excited about the opportunity to contribute to the team’s growth and success.
Overall, Sarah Fillier’s selection as the top pick in the PWHL draft represents a significant milestone in her career. With her scoring abilities, adaptability, and international experience, she has the potential to make a significant impact on the New York team. Fans and teammates have high hopes for Fillier as she joins forces with Coach Fargo to build a strong and competitive team in the upcoming season.
