The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) San Jose has made a significant addition to its roster, signing defender Hadley Hartmetz to a two-year contract ahead of the team's inaugural 2026-27 season. This move marks a strategic step in the team's development, as Hartmetz becomes the sixth player and the first to be added during Phase 3 of the PWHL's Expansion Player Distribution Process. With her impressive skills and international accolades, Hartmetz is poised to make a substantial impact on the team's performance.
Hadley Hartmetz, a 25-year-old native of Phoenixville, PA, brings a wealth of talent and experience to the PWHL. Her second season with the Boston Fleet in 2025-26 was a testament to her prowess, as she registered seven assists, ranking third among Fleet defenders. Hartmetz's journey began at Boston College, where she played for two seasons before transferring to Ohio State, where she won two NCAA National Championships in 2022 and 2024. Her time at Ohio State was marked by exceptional performance, with 59 points (18G, 41A) in 118 games. On the international stage, Hartmetz has earned both gold and silver medals with the United States at the 2018 and 2019 IIHF U18 Women's World Championship, further solidifying her status as a top player in women's hockey.
In the PWHL, Hartmetz will join the team's second defender, Rory Guilday, and a group of talented forwards and a goaltender, all signed to two-year contracts during Phase 2 of the expansion process. The team's strategy is clear: to build a strong foundation and compete at the highest level. The Phase 3 signing period, which ends on June 12, allows each expansion team to add up to eight players, with the option to sign a maximum of three players on expiring contracts. This phase is crucial for teams to finalize their rosters and prepare for the upcoming season.
The PWHL San Jose's announcement on May 19, confirming its place as one of the league's four new expansion teams, has generated excitement among fans. The team's debut at SAP Center in the fall promises to be a historic moment for women's hockey in San Jose. As the team continues to build its roster, the addition of Hartmetz is a significant step forward, showcasing the league's commitment to talent acquisition and development. With her exceptional skills and international experience, Hartmetz is set to make a lasting impact on the PWHL and contribute to the team's success in the upcoming season.
