If Sarah Fillier has dreams of becoming the top women’s hockey player globally, the New York Sirens center is not content after being named the PWHL rookie of the year. Despite tying with Hilary Knight for the league lead in points with 29, Fillier spent the offseason reflecting on missed opportunities that led to New York finishing last in the standings for the second consecutive year.
“There were instances where I had the game in my hands, but we couldn’t capitalize,” said the 25-year-old, highlighting how New York’s nine-game losing streak midseason derailed their season. “To be the best in the world, you need to seize those moments.”
Accustomed to success, the former Princeton standout and 2022 Team Canada Olympic gold medalist is driven as the Sirens start the PWHL’s third season in Ottawa. Fillier is supported by a revamped roster, including top draft picks like Colgate’s Kristyna Kaltounkova and NCAA women’s hockey MVP Casey O’Brien.
The addition of second-round pick Anne Cherkowski, with an impressive college career record, bolsters the Sirens’ forward lineup. These acquisitions compensate for the experienced players the team lost through trades and expansion. Notably, forwards Alex Carpenter and Jessie Eldridge moved to Seattle, and Ella Shelton and Abby Roque were traded for new talent.
With Fillier leading the charge, coach Greg Fargo has a wealth of options with players like Kaltounkova, O’Brien, O’Neill, and Cherkowski to shape the team’s top lines.
“It’s a fresh beginning with significant changes this season,” said Fargo. “The turnover has given us a completely new team.”
Positive Changes for Sirens
The Sirens, struggling to gain victories and fan support in Newark, New Jersey, will benefit from the roster upgrades. Fargo is familiar with Kaltounkova from coaching her at Colgate, where she set records for goals and points. O’Brien, a play-making center, returns to her hometown after a successful college career.
On defense, the Sirens retain key players while adding Jincy Roese. In goal, the team will rely on young talent following the departure of Corinne Schroeder. Fillier, the top pick in the 2024 draft, is eager to make a difference after signing a new contract.
“I believe we have the potential to create something special,” Fillier expressed. “Greg’s coaching style is inspiring, and I am committed to his vision for our team. With the talented college players we have, our roster could be formidable.”