Sarah Fillier, the center for the New York Sirens, is aiming to become the top women’s hockey player globally. Despite her impressive performance, tying with Hilary Knight for the league lead with 29 points and winning the PWHL rookie of the year, Fillier is not content. She spent the off-season reflecting on missed opportunities that led to New York finishing last in the standings for the second consecutive year.
Acknowledging crucial moments where she couldn’t convert scoring chances, Fillier emphasized the importance of seizing such opportunities to reach the pinnacle of the sport. The 25-year-old, a former Princeton standout and 2022 Team Canada Olympic gold medalist, is determined to bounce back as the Sirens begin the PWHL’s third season in Ottawa.
New York has bolstered its roster with top draft picks, including Kristyna Kaltounkova and Casey O’Brien, acquired with the first and third selections, respectively. Anne Cherkowski, a second-round pick known for her impressive college career, further strengthens the team’s forward lineup.
The Sirens have undergone changes, parting ways with some veteran players while welcoming new talent. With Fillier leading the charge, supported by Kaltounkova, O’Brien, Kristen O’Neill, and Cherkowski, Coach Greg Fargo has a wealth of options to shape his top lines.
The team’s move to enhance its lineup comes after struggling to secure victories and fan interest at the NHL Devils’ home in Newark, New Jersey. Familiar with Kaltounkova from his previous coaching experience at Colgate, Fargo is optimistic about the impact of the new additions.
O’Brien, a native of New York City, brings playmaking skills and leadership to the team. The defenseman group sees the return of key players alongside the addition of Jincy Roese in free agency.
In goal, the Sirens have a young but promising roster after the departure of Corinne Schroeder. Rookie draft picks Callie Shanahan and Kacey Doyle join Kayle Osborne, who made her Team Canada debut recently.
Fillier, the top pick in the 2024 PWHL draft, is committed to making a significant contribution to New York’s success after signing a two-year contract. She is eager to see the team’s potential unfold under Coach Fargo’s guidance and believes in the talent within the squad to create a competitive roster.