Grace Outwater, a native of Picton, is on a mission to showcase her talent and lead her team, the Penn State Nittany Lions, to the top of the NCAA Women's Hockey scene. Her journey is an inspiring one, filled with determination and a deep connection to her roots.
The Rising Star
Outwater's performance during the 2025-26 season was nothing short of remarkable. With 24 goals and 16 assists, she proved her worth on the ice and helped her team reach the NCAA Frozen Four semi-finals. The support she received from her local community was overwhelming, and the atmosphere during those games was electric. Grace's passion for the sport and her desire to compete at the highest level are evident in her words: "It was super cool to play in front of them... to show them how great women's hockey is."
A Taste of Success, A Drive for More
Despite the heartbreaking overtime loss to the Wisconsin Badgers, Grace's focus remains unwavering. She understands the potential of her team and believes in their ability to grow and dominate. Her determination to prepare for the upcoming season and her team's shift in gear are a testament to their ambition. Grace's summer training back home in the Quinte region is a strategic move, allowing her to reconnect with familiar faces and utilize the region's resources to enhance her skills.
A League of Her Own
Grace's ultimate goal is to follow in the footsteps of local heroes like Maddi Wheeler and Zoe Uens, and secure a spot in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL). She is inspired by the league's growth and the increasing attention women's hockey is receiving. Grace's experience at the first-ever PWHL game in Ottawa left a lasting impression, and she hopes to be a part of this expanding league, encouraging more girls to pursue their hockey dreams.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Grace's ambition extends beyond her own success. She wants to inspire the younger generation of women's hockey players, proving that there is a future beyond college hockey. Her message is clear: "There's actually something after college hockey... a job you can go to now and play in the PWHL." Grace aims to be a role model, showing that hard work pays off and that women's hockey is a viable and exciting career path.
A New Season, A New Challenge
As the Penn State Nittany Lions gear up for their 2026-27 season, the rivalry with the Ohio State Buckeyes awaits. Grace and her team are ready to hit the ice and showcase their growth and determination. This season promises to be an exciting one, and Grace's journey is a reminder that talent, hard work, and a supportive community can lead to incredible achievements.
Personally, I find Grace's story incredibly motivating. It showcases the power of ambition and the impact one individual can have on a sport. Her journey is a testament to the growth and potential of women's hockey, and I, for one, am excited to see what the future holds for Grace Outwater and her team.
