Caroline Harvey, the talented freshman defenseman from the Wisconsin Badgers women’s hockey team, has been award the prestigious Bob Allen Player of the Year award by USA Hockey. This personal achievement comes on the heels of Harvey’s exceptional performance in leading both the Badgers to their seventh NCAA title and Team USA to the gold medal at the 2023 International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s World Championship. Joining an illustrious group of previous winners, Harvey’s remarkable contributions on and off the ice have earned her this esteemed recognition.
Caroline Harvey Among the Best Names for Wisconsin Badgers
Harvey becomes the fifth Wisconsin Badger to receive this accolade, joining the ranks of legendary players such as Jessie Vetter, Meghan Duggan, Hilary Knight, and Abby Roque. Expressing her gratitude, Harvey humbly accepted the honor, recognizing the support of everyone who made it possible: “I can’t thank my teammates, coaches, parents, and everyone who has helped me along the way enough to get me to this point. I’m extremely grateful to be receiving this award on behalf of USA hockey.”
A Stellar First Year for the Wisconsin Badgers
Hailing from Salem, New Hampshire, Harvey made an immediate impact during her rookie season with the Wisconsin Badgers. She recorded 12 goals with 26 assists in the 39 games she played in. She led WCHA rookies with 38 points. Those 38 points were fifth most in Wisconsin Badgers history by a defender, while trailing only Sis Paulsen for the most points as a rookie defender. The talented defense player was named the WCHA Rookie of the Year, adding to her accolades from her rookie campaign.
She also became only the second freshman in Badger history to be named an All-American, a testament to her exceptional abilities on the ice. Harvey’s outstanding performance during the NCAA Women’s Frozen Four earned her a spot on the All-Tournament Team, where her game-winning overtime goal against No. 2 Minnesota propelled the Badgers to the championship game.
International Success
Caroline Harvey’s contributions extended beyond the collegiate level, as she played a pivotal role in Team USA’s success at the 2023 IIHF Women’s World Championship. Displaying her prowess as a defenseman, Harvey accumulated an impressive 14 points throughout the tournament, including four goals and ten assists. Her 14 points set a record for the most points scored by a defender in a single women’s world championship. Additionally, Harvey received accolades for her exceptional play, earning recognition as one of Team USA’s top three players, the directorate award as the tournament’s top blueliner, and a spot on the media’s all-tournament team.
Caroline Harvey’s remarkable achievement will be formally recognized at USA Hockey’s Annual Congress, set to take place next month. This event will provide an opportunity to celebrate Harvey’s outstanding contributions to the sport and acknowledge her remarkable talent and dedication. It serves as a testament to her hard work, determination, and the immense potential she possesses as a rising star in women’s hockey.
The future looks bright for Wisconsin Badgers Women’s Hockey!