Sarah Fillier is striving to become the top women’s hockey player globally, and her impressive rookie season in the PWHL did not satisfy her ambitions. Despite tying with Hilary Knight for the league’s highest point total, Fillier spent the off-season reflecting on missed opportunities that led New York Sirens to finish last for the second consecutive year.
The 25-year-old emphasized the importance of seizing critical moments in games, especially during a difficult nine-game losing streak that dashed their title hopes. Fillier, a former Princeton standout and 2022 Team Canada Olympic gold medalist, is determined to lead the Sirens to a successful start in the upcoming season.
New York bolstered its roster by selecting top talents like Kristyna Kaltounkova and Casey O’Brien in the draft. The addition of Anne Cherkowski further solidifies the team’s forward lineup, compensating for the departure of key players through trades and expansion.
Coach Greg Fargo expressed excitement about the team’s new look and the potential of the incoming players to complement Fillier’s leadership. The Sirens aim to revitalize their performance and engage fans, especially after facing challenges in generating wins and support in their previous venue.
Kaltounkova, a skilled forward from the Czech Republic, brings a wealth of experience and scoring prowess from her collegiate career. O’Brien, a versatile centre, is set to make an impact with her playmaking abilities and familiarity with the New York hockey scene.
The team’s defensive core remains solid with the return of key players like Micah Zandee-Hart and the addition of Jincy Roese. In goal, the Sirens have a young but promising group led by Kayle Osborne, who is eager to build on her international experience and showcase her talent in the upcoming season.
Fillier, the linchpin of the team, is determined to lead New York to success and create a competitive roster with the support of her teammates and coach Fargo. The Sirens are gearing up for an exciting season with a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh team dynamic.