Cristina Cavaliere led all NCAA players in time-on-ice this season. The Providence College senior is hoping to get more time on the ice next season at the PWHL level.
No player in NCAA women's hockey spent more time on ice this season than Providence College blueliner Cristina Cavaliere.
In 30 games leading to the Hockey East playoffs, Cavaliere averaged an incredible 29:23 of ice per game, playing nearly half of every game for Providence this season.
She's entering the PWHL Draft this season hoping to get more time in her hockey career at the professional level.
"The PWHL represents a step forward and is everything women’s hockey has been working toward," said Cavaliere. "It’s a professional, highly competitive league that truly values elite performance, player development, and the long-term growth of the women’s game. Seeing a league with this level of commitment and vision is incredibly exciting."
Cavaliere, 21, who hails from Mississauga, Ontario had her best season offensively as a senior with the Friars as well nearly doubling her career best marks recording 21 points in 30 games this season. She hopes it's enough to grab the attention of a PWHL team at the draft.
"The opportunity to play in the PWHL would be a tremendous honour. It would allow me to compete against the best players in the world while also contributing to the growth of the game and helping show younger girls what’s possible when they pursue hockey and believe in their dreams," she said.
Cavaliere describes herself as a well-rounded defender who reads plays well, and is able to efficiently move the puck, including under pressure. She's hoping to continue her development following in the footsteps of former Friar defender Brooke Becker who is a rookie this season with the PWHL's Minnesota Frost.
"On the ice, my goal next season is to continue developing my overall game by improving my offensive contribution, increasing my speed and strength, and becoming more physically effective," said Cavaliere. "I want to keep growing into a dependable, two-way defenseman and challenge myself against higher levels of competition."