Grace Outwater, a forward for the Penn State Nittany Lions and a native of Picton, is gearing up for another season of success in NCAA Women's hockey. With a strong showing in her 2025-2026 campaign, where she scored 24 goals and 16 assists in 36 games, Outwater and her team made it to the NCAA Frozen Four semi-finals, a testament to their hard work and dedication. The experience was thrilling, as she described the atmosphere as 'unreal' and the crowd as 'insane'.
Despite falling short in the semi-finals against the Wisconsin Badgers, Outwater's mindset is already set on the future. She believes that the team's performance this past year was impressive, but there's still room for growth. Her goal is to continue improving and help the team become the best it can be, aiming to win championships. Outwater's local connections in the Quinte region have been invaluable during the summer, providing training and a sense of home.
The rising star's aspirations extend beyond college hockey. She dreams of joining the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) and following in the footsteps of local players like Maddi Wheeler and Zoe Uens. Outwater was inspired by the growth of the league and the attention it has received, especially after attending the first-ever game in Ottawa. She wants to be a part of this expanding league and hopes to inspire the next generation of women's hockey players.
Outwater's determination and passion are evident in her words. She emphasizes the importance of hard work and pushing boundaries, stating that there's a job after college hockey in the PWHL. This mindset is crucial for her success and the development of women's hockey as a whole. As the Nittany Lions prepare for their 2026-2027 season, Outwater's leadership and talent will undoubtedly be a driving force for their success.
