POTSDAM — The 2025 PWHL Draft proved historic for Clarkson University’s women’s hockey program, as three Golden Knights were selected among the first nine picks, further solidifying the program’s reputation as a powerhouse in developing elite-level talent.
Defenseman Haley Winn made history as the highest-drafted Clarkson player ever, going second overall to the Boston Fleet. She was followed closely by fellow blueliner Nicole Gosling, who was taken fourth overall by Montréal Victoire, and forward Anne Cherkowski, who was selected ninth by the New York Sirens.
The trio joins 11 other former Clarkson players who have earned spots on PWHL rosters since the league’s inception.
“What an incredible night for Haley, Nicole, and Anne,” said head coach Matt Desrosiers. “To have all three of them chosen in the first nine picks shows the dedication and effort they put into their development at Clarkson. Watching them walk across the stage was such a proud moment for our program. We can’t wait to see them make an impact in the PWHL.”
Haley Winn – 2nd Overall to Boston Fleet
A dominant presence on Clarkson’s blue line, Haley Winn capped her senior season with 14 goals and 32 assists in 38 games, earning ECAC Player of the Year, Defender of the Year, First-Team All-American, and was a Patty Kazmaier Award finalist. She also helped lead Team USA to gold at the 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship.
Nicole Gosling – 4th Overall to Montréal Victoire
A stalwart defender throughout her five-year collegiate career, Nicole Gosling departs as Clarkson’s all-time leading scorer among defensemen, with 148 career points (44 goals, 104 assists). In her graduate season, she notched 12 goals and 27 assists in 40 games, earning First-Team All-ECAC honors for the second straight year. Gosling also earned gold with Team Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Championship, skating alongside her cousin, Julia Gosling.
Anne Cherkowski – 9th Overall to New York Sirens
A dynamic forward with a sharp scoring touch, Anne Cherkowski posted 17 goals and 28 assists in her final season, earning First-Team All-ECAC honors. Known for her speed, grit, and offensive instincts, she was a key veteran leader in Clarkson’s lineup.
The Golden Knights were one of the few NCAA programs to have multiple players selected in the top 10, a distinction that underscores their continued prominence in collegiate hockey. The ECAC, widely regarded as the top NCAA women’s hockey league, saw 15 players drafted from seven of its 12 institutions.
Clarkson’s impressive showing at the 2025 PWHL Draft is the latest milestone for a program that has won multiple national championships and developed dozens of professional and international players. As Winn, Gosling, and Cherkowski begin their professional careers, they carry forward the tradition, pride, and championship mindset of Clarkson Hockey.
Fans can follow their PWHL journeys at ClarksonAthletics.com and on social media at @ClarksonWHockey.