Sarah Fillier, the New York Sirens center, is not content with her PWHL rookie of the year season despite tying for the league lead with 29 points alongside Hilary Knight. Fillier, aiming to become the best women’s hockey player globally, spent the off-season reflecting on missed opportunities that led to New York finishing last in the standings for the second consecutive year.
The 25-year-old expressed regret over instances where she failed to capitalize on crucial moments during a nine-game midseason losing streak, emphasizing that such moments define a player striving for greatness. Fillier, a former Princeton standout and 2022 Team Canada Olympic gold medalist, is highly motivated as the Sirens gear up for the PWHL’s third season opener in Ottawa.
New York bolstered its roster with top-tier draft picks, including Kristyna Kaltounkova and Casey O’Brien, acquired with the No. 1 and No. 3 selections respectively. They also added Anne Cherkowski, known for her impressive college career performance, enhancing the team’s forward lineup significantly.
Despite losing seasoned players through trades and expansion, such as Alex Carpenter and Jessie Eldridge, the Sirens now boast a formidable lineup with Fillier leading the charge alongside Kaltounkova, O’Brien, and others. Coach Greg Fargo is excited about the fresh start with the influx of new talent, acknowledging the team’s revamped composition.
The Sirens, who have struggled to secure victories and fan support while playing in Newark, New Jersey, anticipate a turnaround with the added depth and skill brought in by the new recruits. Kaltounkova, the first European player drafted first in the PWHL, arrives with an impressive collegiate record, while O’Brien brings her playmaking prowess to the team.
On the defensive end, New York retains key players like Micah Zandee-Hart and adds Jincy Roese to strengthen the backline. The team’s goaltending situation sees a youthful presence following the departure of Corinne Schroeder, with Kayle Osborne and newcomers Callie Shanahan and Kacey Doyle set to solidify the net.
Fillier, eager to contribute to the team’s success, signed a two-year contract in July and is enthusiastic about the potential of the revamped roster under Coach Fargo’s guidance. The Sirens aim to build a competitive and dynamic team, drawing strength from their talented college recruits to shape a promising future.