Ontario’s Sarah Marchand Eyes PWHL After Strong Season in Sweden
After a year of professional hockey with Modo in Sweden’s elite women’s league, Sarah Marchand of Belle River, Ontario, is hoping to earn a spot in the upcoming Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Draft.
Marchand, 23, who previously played NCAA hockey at Syracuse and St. Lawrence, believes she is a more complete player following her experience overseas.
“This year I’m fully invested in PWHL,” Marchand said. “This is what I want to do and it seems there is more interest.”
Draft Details
The PWHL Draft is scheduled for Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the Fox Theater in Detroit and will air on TSN and TSN2.
The Vancouver Goldeneyes secured the first overall pick, while expansion franchises Detroit and Hamilton will pick third and sixth, respectively. The Toronto Sceptres, Ottawa Charge, and champion Montreal Victoire will pick eighth, 11th, and 12th. The order remains consistent across all six rounds, with 72 players available.
Record Talent Pool
A record 235 players registered for the draft by the May 8 deadline, representing the largest talent pool since the league’s inaugural season.
Players from eight different countries registered, including 23 who competed in the 2026 Winter Olympics. Once selected, a player has two years to sign with that team or return to the draft pool.
Marchand’s Swedish Success
Marchand declared for the draft last year but was not selected, leading her to sign with Modo in Sweden. She posted nine goals and 25 points in 36 games, finishing with a plus-nine rating.
“I had a pretty good season and showed that I can play at this level with a pretty good team,” said Marchand, a Southwest Wildcats product. “It’s a very fast-paced game in Sweden and a big change, but I was able to be successful in a well-known, established league.”
Even players who go undrafted can still join the league as free agents.
Ranking and Expectations
According to Hockey News, Marchand is ranked No. 70 out of the top 125 prospects, making her the region’s top draft prospect.
“I probably won’t declare for the draft,” Marchand said. “I think I’ll watch with my parents, hang around the house and hope for a call.”
Other local prospects include Meaghan Agosta (ranked 71st), Brooke Campbell (97th), Bri Eid (112th), Krystin Lawrence, and Kayla Renaud.
“I think it’s amazing what’s happening in women’s sports in general,” Marchand said. “Women’s sports are booming and it’s a great time to get involved.”
