Haley Winn, a prominent member of the U.S. women’s hockey team, marked her Olympic debut at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan, where she played a key role in securing a gold medal for her team. On February 19, Team USA triumphed over Canada, clinching a dramatic 2-1 victory in overtime. Following her success in Milan, Winn discussed with PEOPLE the ripple effects the Olympics have had on professional women’s hockey.
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The 22-year-old defenceman has garnered attention not just for her performance on the ice, but also for her optimistic vision for the future of women’s hockey. After being chosen second overall in the first round of the 2025 PWHL Draft by the Boston Fleet, she believes that the Olympics have significantly raised the profile of the women’s game, extending its reach beyond the event itself.
“Personally, I think the Olympics did an exceptional job shining a light on women’s hockey,” Winn shared. “The PWHL is poised for substantial growth, and I’m excited to see how much more exposure we will receive.” Her thoughts came shortly after the U.S. women’s team secured their third Olympic gold, adding to their victories in 1998 and 2018.
The excitement generated by the Olympics was palpable as Winn noted the immediate impact on ticket sales for PWHL games. Specifically, she highlighted how the monumental moment of Megan Keller scoring the “golden goal” in overtime contributed to ticket demand. “I heard that after Keller scored, our game at TD Garden was already generating a lot of buzz, and it sold out almost instantly,” she said.
The Boston Fleet, who typically play at the Tsongas Center in Lowell, Massachusetts, are also set to host a special game at the iconic TD Garden on April 11, marking a first for the league at such a prominent venue, often associated with the Boston Bruins. This move not only underlines the growing interest in women’s hockey but also indicates a promising future for the league as it gains recognition.
Reflecting on the changes within the PWHL, Winn expressed her delight. “It’s just incredible to see such a positive shift,” she conveyed. “I think many have realised just how skilled women’s hockey players are, and that’s an important milestone in our journey.” She went on to commend the hard work of early pioneers in the sport, acknowledging their contributions to creating the current landscape for women’s hockey.
Winn’s return to the Boston Fleet after the Olympics has been met with enthusiasm. “I’m thrilled to be back,” she remarked. “There was a feeling of gratitude while I was in Milan, and I didn’t want the experience to end. However, I’m equally eager to reunite with my teammates and get back to playing in Boston.”
She emphasized the supportive atmosphere within the Fleet, noting the energy on the ice as they resumed training together. “It’s clear we have a special group, and everyone is excited to continue working hard and building on our strong start to the season,” she stated confidently.
As of March 10, the Boston Fleet boast an impressive record of 13 wins and 4 losses, currently enjoying a six-game winning streak. Their success on the ice resonates with fans, who are eager to rally behind their favourite team in light of the recent Olympic achievements.
In conclusion, Haley Winn’s experiences in Milan not only enriched her career but also contribute to an evolving narrative around women’s hockey. As the PWHL continues to gain traction, it seems poised for exciting developments ahead, invigorated by the monumental performances witnessed during the Winter Olympics.