Record Four Saskatchewan Players Drafted into PWHL

Saskatchewan is celebrating a historic achievement in women's hockey, with a record four players from the province being drafted into the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) in 2026. Balgonie's Alexis Pettford was selected 53rd overall, followed by Regina's Neena Brick and Erica Rieder in the fifth round. Wilcox native Ashley Messier was the final Saskatchewan product chosen, going in the sixth round.

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It was a moment I heard all these names called all the rounds through and then I heard my name and it was a little bit shocking.

For Erica Rieder, the draft was a culmination of perseverance. At 29, she represents a different path to the PWHL compared to many draftees born in 2003 or 2004. "Erica is the definition of perseverance. She wanted this and at her age, she didn’t give up," said shooting coach Trevor Lakness. Rieder spent four seasons with the Manitoba Bisons before playing in the SDHL overseas, taking a couple of years off in between. She credits her time in Europe for developing her into a better player.

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Erica is the definition of perseverance. She wanted this and at her age, she didn’t give up. So many people quit on the process; she just kept going and going.

This influx of talent underscores the rising caliber of women's hockey in Saskatchewan. With three provincial-born players already in the PWHL, the number could potentially reach seven by November. "Not only is this exciting for the four girls that got drafted in southern Saskatchewan, we also have a few more girls that will be getting talked about for next year’s so over the next two three years we might have 10 girls from this province playing in the PWHL," noted Lakness.

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The calibre of hockey there was a step up from what I had played here in Canada at the time and so, you know, I’ve developed into a better player over there and I’m excited to be with the best of the best in the PWHL.

Rieder also observes the increasing skill level among younger players she trains. "Every year I notice that the calibre of hockey is increasing," she added. The future of women's hockey in Saskatchewan appears bright, and with the PWHL's continued expansion, more players from the province are expected to reach the professional ranks.

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Not only is this exciting for the four girls that got drafted in southern Saskatchewan, we also have a few more girls that will be getting talked about for next year’s so over the next two three years we might have 10 girls from this province playing in the PWHL.