USA’s U-18 National Team Gear Up for 2026 IIHF U-18 World Championships
The anticipation is building as the USA has announced its 25-player roster for the upcoming 2026 IIHF U-18 World Championships. Taking place in the scenic locations of Sydney and Membertou, Nova Scotia from January 10-18, 2026, this tournament promises to showcase the best young talent in women’s hockey on an international stage.
A Strong Core of Returnees
What sets this roster apart is the inclusion of a strong nucleus of ten returning athletes from the silver medal-winning 2025 team in Finland. Players such as Kylie Amelkovich, Maggie Averill, Haley Box, Jane Daley, Sloane Hartmetz, Maddy Kimbrel, Annabelle Lovell, Christina Scalese, Morgan Stickney, and Chyna Taylor will bring their experience and camaraderie to the ice. Among them, Averill and Box are set to participate in their third U-18 World Championship, showcasing their longevity and commitment to the sport.
Exclusions from the Roster
While the roster is filled with talent, notables like Mary Derrenbacher and Sydney Stoughton were left off the final lineup. Both players are considered among the best in the nation and their absence raises questions about the selection process. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this decision affects the team’s overall performance.
Goaltending Looks Promising
In terms of goaltending, the U.S. has a robust lineup. Morgan Stickney, a seasoned player, will be backed up by Texas product Bianca Birrittieri, known for her stellar play with the Pittsburgh Pens Elite program. Also making her debut on the international stage will be 2009 netminder Cecilia Wielenberg, rounding out a promising goaltending trio that aims to keep the puck out of the net and secure victories.
A Solid Defensive Line
The blueline looks equally formidable with stalwarts like Averill, Taylor, and Hartmetz at the helm. These veteran players are not only expected to defend but also join the attack, proving crucial in both facets of the game. Adding depth to the defense are four players from Minnesota—Addison McLay, Taylee Manion, Mia Miller, and Kateryna Sander—as well as Ava Decourcey, a teammate of Averill’s from Assebet Valley. This blend of experience and youthful enthusiasm promises to create a dynamic defensive unit.
Offensive Firepower
When it comes to scoring, Haley Box stands out as the top returning scorer for the USA, and her ability to find the back of the net will be pivotal in their quest for gold. Joining her in the offensive lineup are a mix of seasoned returnees and fresh faces. The forward group features talents like Kylie Amelkovich, Jane Daley, Maddy Kimbrel, Annabelle Lovell, and Christina Scalese, all of whom have proven capabilities in putting points on the board.
But the roster doesn’t stop there—new names like Lindsay Stepnowski, Bailey Rupp, Emily Pohl, Jillian McLaughlin, Lily Bromley, Alaina Gnetz, Talla Hansen, and Catherine McCool complete the forward lineup, ensuring a mix of skill and strategy from various playing styles.
The Path Ahead
With such a well-rounded blend of experience and youthful enthusiasm, the U-18 team is gearing up for an exciting championship run. As they prepare to take on the world in Nova Scotia, the anticipation among fans, family, and fellow athletes heightens, making every moment leading up to the tournament even more significant. The commitment and preparation over the coming months will be crucial as the USA aims for nothing less than victory on the world stage.