American national team members Kendall Coyne Schofield, Lee Stecklein, and Kelly Pannek were the first three signings of the PWHL's Minnesota franchise.

Minnesota's PWHL franchise has announced their first three free agency signings with GM Natalie Darwitz bringing in American legend Kendall Coyne Schofield, PWHPA Defender of the Year and national team star Lee Stecklein, and national team member and Minnesota native Kelly Pannek.

“With the signing of three of the top players in the world, Minnesota cements its foundation as a team built on excellence,” said Natalie Darwitz, general manager of PWHL Minnesota in a press release. “Kendall, Lee, and Kelly’s world-class hockey skills and leadership qualities embody the level of excellence that the culture of Minnesota will be built on. We are thrilled they are the first three players to join Minnesota as we build a championship team.”

Coyne Schofield took a year away from international play following the birth of her child, but is back ready for full competition this season. When she left the PWHPA this season playing for Team Adidas, she was one of the few players in the league recording more than a point per game with 10 points in nine contests.

“Signing this contract is a reflection of so many people who have worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality,” said Coyne Schofield. “I'd like to thank Mark and Kimbra Walter and Billie Jean King and Ilana Kloss for embracing this endeavor and building a league alongside the vision of the players. This is monumental and it is only the beginning.”

The six-time World Champion, Olympic gold medalist, and former Patty Kazmaier winner with Northeastern will be central to Minnesota's offense.

“Minnesota is elated to welcome Kendall to the team,” said Darwitz. “Kendall is one of the premier faces of women’s hockey and was a catalyst for the creation of the Professional Women’s Hockey League. Kendall has already distinguished herself as a highly accomplished player and will have a tremendous impact on the team. She is a speedy, energetic, and dynamic two-way forward. We warmly welcome Kendall and her family to Minnesota!”

Lee Stecklein, a member of Team USA and the reigning PWHPA Defender of the Year played last season with Team Harvey's where Stecklein, 29, led all defenders with 15 points in 20 games. Stecklein is one of Team USA's most decorated defenders winning six World Championship gold medals and an Olympic gold, along with four silvers at the events. The six-foot defender also was named the Best Defender at the 2021 Worlds.

“I am honored to be part of the first wave of players to sign officially with the PWHL, and I am thrilled by the opportunity to continue my career in Minnesota,” said Stecklein. “Thank you to the women who stood united over these years and those who worked daily to make this league a reality!”

Stecklein, a Minnesota product, turned pro in 2018-2019 winning an Isobel Cup title with the Minnesota Whitecaps where she was named playoff MVP before joining the PWHPA. At the NCAA level, Stecklein won three NCAA national championships with the University of Minnesota.

“Minnesota extends a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Lee,” said Darwitz. “Lee is a two-way, highly respected defender whose experience and skill set will be a great addition to the team. Lee’s positive influence extends from the locker room to throughout the Minnesota hockey community. We are fortunate to sign a player of Lee’s caliber to our team.”

Minnesota's final signing Kelly Pannek, 27, was raised in the state and played her NCAA hockey at the University of Minnesota. Pannek has three World Championship golds and an Olympic gold, and won two NCAA titles.

“I could not be more excited to be a part of this new era of women’s professional hockey in Minnesota,” said Pannek. “I have always taken great pride in representing the State of Hockey throughout every stage of my career, and to do it now as a pro is a dream come true. I can’t wait to get to work as a part of this organization to hopefully bring home more trophies to Minnesota!”

“We are thrilled to sign Kelly and welcome her to the Minnesota Team,” said Darwitz. “Kelly is a strong two-way center with elite vision and superb playmaking skills. Kelly has been influential in Minnesota, both in growing the game of hockey and giving back to the community. We are excited to add Kelly to our Minnesota organization!”