Casey O’Brien Drafted by the New York Sirens: A New Chapter Begins

During the PWHL Draft held in Ottawa, Ontario, Casey O’Brien sat eagerly with her family, contemplating potential landing spots like Toronto, Montreal, or Ottawa. However, when the New York Sirens traded up to secure the third pick, O’Brien’s excitement shifted gears.

“Oh, my god,” she recalled thinking. “Wait, am I going to New York?” The moment her name was called, she experienced a whirlwind of shock and joy.

Sirens’ Strategy and O’Brien’s Selection

The Sirens confirmed O’Brien’s anticipated selection moments after they picked Czech forward Kristyna Kaltounkova first overall. The Sirens traded forward Ella Shelton to Toronto to gain the Nos. 3 and 27 picks, paving the way for O’Brien.

“I think I blacked out,” O’Brien shared, reflecting on the intense moments leading up to her selection. “We were just sitting there, trying to stay calm, not be too nervous, and then the trade happened."

O’Brien’s Journey to the Sirens

• Hometown Advantage: Casey was raised in SoHo, New York, where she learned to love hockey at the Chelsea Piers Sports Complex. This local rink became her foundation, as she frequently accompanied her brothers, Jack and Max, and watched her dad coach.

• Early Inspiration: “I always wanted to do what they were doing,” she said, recalling how she hopped on the ice with them even before learning to skate. This exposure ignited her passion for the game.

• Prep School Success: O’Brien honed her skills at Shattuck St. Mary’s, a prestigious Minnesota prep school, accumulating 211 points in 122 games over three seasons.

Collegiate Triumphs

O’Brien’s collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin was marked by significant achievements:

• Three National Titles: Contributing to three championships in five seasons solidified her reputation.

• Patty Kazmaier Award: This accolade highlighted her as the best collegiate player after an outstanding senior season.

A Fresh Start with the Sirens

Now at 23, O’Brien aims to contribute to building a winning culture with the Sirens, who have endured two tough seasons.

• Focus on the Future: "We’re not looking at the past at all," she emphasized. "None of the players are. We’re coming in with a blank slate."

• Familiar Faces: O’Brien will play alongside teammates Sarah Fillier, Anne Cherkowski, and her best friend Makenna Webster, creating immediate chemistry on the ice.

Conclusion

With high hopes and a clear vision, Casey O’Brien steps into a new chapter with the New York Sirens, poised to make an impact and revitalize the team’s performance. Her journey from local rinks to professional play symbolizes the spirit of determination and passion in women’s hockey.

Embark on this thrilling new era with us as O’Brien embraces the challenges ahead. For more updates on women’s hockey, follow the PWHL official site and join the conversation!