Sarah Fillier, the center for the New York Sirens in the PWHL, is driven to excel and aims to become the top women’s hockey player globally. Despite an impressive rookie season where she tied with Hilary Knight for the league lead in points, Fillier is not content. She spent the off-season reflecting on missed opportunities that led New York to finish at the bottom of the standings for the second consecutive year.
Acknowledging critical moments where she had the game in her control but couldn’t capitalize, Fillier emphasizes the importance of such instances in defining one’s pursuit of greatness. With a determination to bounce back, the 25-year-old, a former Princeton standout and 2022 Team Canada Olympic gold medalist, is eager to lead the Sirens as they begin the third PWHL season in Ottawa.
To bolster the team, the Sirens made strategic draft selections, including top pick Kristyna Kaltounkova from Colgate and NCAA women’s hockey MVP Casey O’Brien. The addition of second-round pick Anne Cherkowski further solidifies the Sirens’ forward lineup, compensating for the departure of key veteran players like Alex Carpenter, Jessie Eldridge, and Ella Shelton.
Coach Greg Fargo is optimistic about the team’s prospects, highlighting the infusion of new talent and the fresh start it brings. The Sirens, who have faced challenges in performance and fan engagement while playing in Newark, New Jersey, are looking to turn the tide and create a winning culture with the revamped roster.
Kaltounkova, a prolific scorer from the Czech Republic, brings a wealth of experience, having set records at Colgate. O’Brien, a versatile center with roots at New York City’s Chelsea Piers, adds playmaking skills and leadership to the team. The defensive core, led by captain Micah Zandee-Hart, remains solid with the inclusion of Jincy Roese in free agency.
In goal, the Sirens have a young but promising lineup following the departure of Corinne Schroeder. Kayle Osborne, backed by Team Canada experience, is set to lead the goaltending unit alongside rookies Callie Shanahan and Kacey Doyle.
Fillier, the top pick in the 2024 PWHL draft, is enthusiastic about the team’s potential and is committed to making a significant impact in New York. She praises Coach Fargo’s vision and leadership, emphasizing the talent and depth within the team that could propel them to success in the upcoming season.