The Vancouver Goldeneyes made a decisive move in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) entry draft on Wednesday, selecting American defender Caroline Harvey with the first overall pick. Harvey, 23, brings an impressive resume that includes being named most valuable player at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, where she led the United States to a gold medal.
Harvey's Stellar Career
A product of the University of Wisconsin, Harvey tied for the tournament lead in scoring during the Olympics with two goals and seven assists in seven games. She was also recognized as the event's best defender and earned a spot on the all-star team. This marked her second Olympic appearance, following a silver medal at Beijing 2022.
Harvey's international accolades include five world championship medals (two gold, three silver) and two best defender honors at the worlds in 2023 and 2025. Domestically, she was part of three NCAA championship teams at Wisconsin and won the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award this year as the top player in American collegiate hockey.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Pelham, New Hampshire native was named the IIHF 2026 female player of the year.
Draft Day Excitement
"It's been a special year, just all the experiences with the U.S. team, Wisconsin. I'm just so grateful for all my coaches, teammates, and family. It really takes a village, and just feeling really blessed right now," Harvey said in an interview on TSN from the draft stage.
Harvey was widely considered the consensus first pick, but Vancouver general manager Cara Gardner Morey kept her intentions private before the draft, stating she would evaluate all options. The PWHL draft is noted for its depth as the league enters its fourth season and expands to 12 teams next fall.
Goldeneyes' Season and Draft Position
The Goldeneyes finished sixth in the eight-team league this year with a 9-3-4-14 record in their expansion season. They earned the top pick by winning the league's Gold Plan standings, which awards points to teams after they are mathematically eliminated from playoff contention.
"Not a ton of sleep. Just a lot of excitement and, of course, nerves," Harvey said about the night before the draft. "And just cherishing the moments with family, friends, and enjoying this experience together. It's been very special, to say the least."
