The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Montreal team has made a significant addition to their roster by selecting American defender Cayla Barnes in the first round of the 2024 draft.
Barnes, a 21-year-old from Eastvale, California, has an impressive track record in the sport. She was a member of the United States women’s national ice hockey team that won gold at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea. She also played for Boston College and helped lead the team to two NCAA championships.
The PWHL Montreal team is thrilled to have Barnes join their ranks. Head coach, Marie-Philip Poulin, expressed her excitement, stating, “Cayla is a talented and dynamic player who will bring a wealth of experience and skill to our team. We are confident that she will make a significant impact on the ice and contribute to our success.”
Barnes is equally excited about joining the PWHL Montreal team. “I am honored to be selected by such a prestigious organization and to have the opportunity to play alongside some of the best players in the world,” she said. “I am ready to work hard and help bring a championship to Montreal.”
The 2024 draft was a historic one for the PWHL as it marked the first time that the league allowed teams to select players from outside of Canada and the United States. This change was made in an effort to increase the diversity and competitiveness of the league.
Barnes’ selection in the first round is a testament to her talent and potential as a player. She is expected to make an immediate impact on the PWHL Montreal team and help them in their quest for a championship title.
The PWHL Montreal team and their fans eagerly await the start of the season to see Barnes in action and witness her skills on the ice. With her addition to the team, they are confident that they have strengthened their defense and are one step closer to achieving their ultimate goal.
