Wakefield Named Assistant Coach for Canada's National Women's Development Team
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Penn State women's hockey assistant coach Kate Wakefield has been named an assistant coach for Canada's National Women's Development Team. The appointment, announced on July 30, 2026, adds to Wakefield's coaching resume and highlights her growing reputation in the sport. She will help guide Canada's top young female hockey players in international competition, a role that also brings prestige to Penn State's program.
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For Mountaineer fans, this news is a reminder of the coaching talent across the Big Ten and the broader collegiate hockey landscape. While Wakefield is at Penn State, her international role elevates the profile of women's hockey in the conference, which in turn raises the level of competition WVU faces (if applicable). It also underscores the importance of women's sports development, a area where WVU continues to invest.
Penn State Nittany Lions hockey faces significant challenges heading into the 2025-26 season, according to an analysis by Colin Murphy. The article highlights three primary reasons for pessimism: the departure of star forward Gavin McKenna, who led the team in scoring, the underwhelming performance of goaltender Matt DiMarsico, and a porous defensive unit that struggled against top Big Ten opponents like Michigan State. These factors could hinder Penn State's competitiveness in the rugged Big Ten conference.
Ice Hockey · official university athletics site · signal 65
Penn State women's hockey players Alyssa Stonehouse and Karley Outwater have been selected to represent Hockey Canada's National Women's Development Team. The duo will participate in a development camp and series, gaining valuable international experience and exposure as part of Canada's player pipeline. This selection highlights their individual talent and the strength of the Penn State program in developing high-level players.
Penn State women's ice hockey players Tessa Keller and Alyssa Morrow have been invited to the 2026 USA Hockey Women's National Festival. The festival serves as a selection camp for the U.S. Women's National Team, which will compete in the 2026 IIHF Women's World Championship. Both players are recognized for their outstanding collegiate performances and are among the top prospects in the country.