Morgan Stickney Becomes First American Woman Drafted To WHL

California's Morgan Stickney became the first American woman ever selected in the WHL Draft.

Morgan Stickney became the first ever American woman selected in the WHL Draft when the Portland Winterhawks picked the netminder with the 215th overall pick in the 2023 draft.

“I’ve always been a fan of the Winterhawks and to now be a part of this organization is a dream come true,” Stickney said in a Winterhawks news release. 

“To be drafted in the same league (Canadian Hockey League) as Manon Rhéaume and drafted to a team with a history of goalie legacy is an honor. I want to thank everyone who has supported me to this point and I look forward to what’s to come.”

Stickney played for Shattuck St. Mary's this season posting a 23-4-3 record. The 2008 born goalie from Redondo Beach, California posted a 928 save percentage and 1.52 GAA this year. 

“Morgan has excelled at the highest levels of USA Hockey. Her play for the LA Jr. Kings and Shattucks St. Mary’s is well deserving of recognition with our selection in the WHL Draft,” said, Mike Coflin, Portland's Assistant to the General Manager and Director of Scouting. 

“We are already looking forward to hosting Morgan and all our new Winterhawks prospects at the Neely Cup training camp in late August, and this will be a very rewarding hockey experience for her.”

Last year Chloe Primerano became the first ever skater selected in the WHL draft when the blueliner was selected by the Vancouver Giants. 

The most recent woman to appear in the CHL game was goaltender Ève Gascon who played for the Gatineau Olympiques in the 2021-2022 season.