From Minnesota to Milan: Women’s Hockey Players to Watch

We’re getting so close to the start of the 2026 Milan Olympics, and I can feel the excitement building already. I’ve always loved the Olympics — the energy, the storylines, the chance to see the best in the world on one stage — but women’s hockey is what I look forward to most. As we count down to the opening ceremonies, you’ll see more Olympic coverage here, and today felt like the perfect time to highlight something near and dear to my heart: all the Minnesota connections heading to Milan. 
 
Minnesota has long been a powerhouse in women’s hockey. From youth programs to high school rinks to college arenas, this state has shaped generations of players who go on to make an impact on the national and international stage. This year is no different, and it’s always a joy to see just how many Minnesota ties show up when Olympic rosters are announced.

Minnesota‑Born Players

Minnesota continues to be one of the most represented states on Team USA. Five of the 23 players on this year’s roster were born here — more than any other state. Illinois and New York follow with three each, but Minnesota once again leads the way. 
 
The Minnesota-born players bring a blend of experience, leadership, and fresh energy:

• Lee Stecklein – competing in her fourth Olympics 
• Kelly Pannek – her third 
• Grace Zumwinkle – her second 
• Rory Guilday – her first 
• Taylor Heise – her first 

 It’s a wonderful mix of veterans and newcomers, and their presence will be a huge asset for Team USA.

Minnesota Frost Players on Olympic Teams

The Minnesota Frost will also be well represented in Milan, with eight players competing across two national teams: 

• Team USA: Kendall Coyne Schofield, Lee Stecklein, Kelly Pannek, Taylor Heise, Grace Zumwinkle, Britta Curl‑Salemme 
• Team Czechia: Denisa Křížová, Klára Hymlárová 

Seeing Frost teammates compete on the world stage — sometimes with each other, sometimes against each other — is one of the things that makes the Olympics so fun. 

Minnesota College Players on Olympic Teams

Minnesota’s five Division I women’s hockey programs continue to be a global force. Across six different countries, ten current or former Minnesota college players will be skating in Milan: 

• Team USA: Abbey Murphy (University of Minnesota) 
• Team Czechia: Tereza Plosová (University of Minnesota) 
• Team Finland: Emilia Kyrkkö (St. Cloud State), Nelli Laitinen (University of Minnesota), Siiri Yrjölä (St. Cloud State) 
• Team Germany: Svenja Voigt (St. Cloud State) 
• Team Sweden: Ida Karlsson (Minnesota Duluth), Josefin Bouveng (University of Minnesota), Thea Johansson (Minnesota Duluth) 
• Team Switzerland: Laura Zimmermann (St. Cloud State) 

 It’s incredible to see how far-reaching Minnesota’s hockey influence is — not just nationally, but internationally. 

Final Thoughts

Minnesota’s presence in women’s hockey has always been special, and this year’s Olympic rosters are another reminder of just how deep those roots run. Whether you’re cheering for Team USA or looking for other teams to follow when the Americans aren’t on the ice, there are so many Minnesota-connected players to support throughout the tournament. 
 
Which Minnesota player are you most excited to watch in Milan — and who do you think will make the biggest impact? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.