Casey O’Brien approaches hockey differently than most players. Even while competing at the highest level of professional women’s hockey, she still treats the sport as a game

“A big part of who I am that people wouldn’t see is that I still treat hockey as a game,” O’Brien said. “It’s the game I grew up playing in the backyard with my brothers. Every time I’m out there, I’m kind of a goofball.”

O’Brien played five seasons at the University of Wisconsin before being drafted third overall in the 2025 PWHL Draft by the New York Sirens.

While many athletes feel the pressure of performing at such a high level, O’Brien focuses on enjoying herself on the ice.

“Even in the highest-pressure games, it’s still fun,” she told The Hockey News. “No one really knows this, but on the bench I’m cracking jokes, laughing, and having a great time.”

For O’Brien, hockey is her favorite activity year-round, no matter the stakes.

Transitioning to New York as a professional athlete has been a big change from her NCAA days, but one thing remains the same: the fans.

“Part of what makes hockey special for me is seeing the passion from everyone else,” O’Brien said. “I want people to know how much fun I’m having out there and how much they impact my experience.”

Growing up in New York City, O’Brien learned early about the city’s sports culture. Her mother was a Yankees fan, and she became a devoted New York Rangers supporter. But she also spent a lot of time in the New Jersey suburbs, traveling to play hockey as a kid.

“We’d drive right after school and wait three hours in the parking lot just to avoid traffic,” she recalled. “Then we’d practice, and my family would drive back. It was one of the only options.”

Today, programs like the Jersey Girls Hockey Club, supported by the New Jersey Devils and the Prudential Center, continue to provide opportunities for young players like O’Brien. Following her draft, she got to meet some of the players in the club.

“It was super cool to meet them and spend time with them because I kind of saw myself in them,” she said. “A lot of them had questions about the next steps in pursuing their passion in hockey.”

Although the Sirens have yet to announce their 2025–26 schedule, O’Brien has already started exploring New York, meeting other athletes, visiting special sites, and connecting with fans.

“Going into the league in New York, I can’t wait to connect with everybody, share my joy for the game, and hopefully help grow hockey in the area.”

Casey O’Brien Embraces New York Spotlight After PWHL Draft The New York Sirens’ <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/womens/pwhl/bold-trade-brings-casey-o-brien-home-to-new-york">first-round draft pick, Casey O’Brien</a>, has been busy since the PWHL Draft. She took a “media tour” across New York, attending sporting events, marching in the NYC Pride Parade, inspiring young hockey players, and more.