Rochester, NY – As the U.S. Women’s Hockey team prepares for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina, the spotlight is shining not only on its star players but also on the unwavering support system behind them. The three older brothers of defender Haley Winn – Casey, Ryan, and Tommy – have become known for their enthusiastic and distinctive displays of encouragement, a tradition that began in their backyard rink and continues to fuel her Olympic journey.
Winn, 22, a graduate of Clarkson University and a first-round pick (second overall) in the 2025 PWHL Draft by the Boston Fleet, has quickly become a key component of the U.S. National team. Her path to the Olympics began early, reportedly crawling to the laundry room to don her brothers’ hockey pads before she could even walk, according to her parents. This early fascination blossomed into a competitive career, nurtured by countless hours of pickup games with her siblings.
All three of Winn’s brothers played college hockey, a shared experience that fostered a deep understanding of the dedication and sacrifice required to excel in the sport. Her father, Mike Winn, also attended Clarkson University, playing baseball during his time there. The family’s commitment to athletics clearly played a significant role in Haley’s development as an athlete.
Winn’s collegiate career at Clarkson University was marked by success, culminating in a First Team All-American selection. She finished her career with 130 points (37 goals, 93 assists) in 151 games, ranking second all-time among Clarkson defensemen in career points. She debuted with the U.S. Women’s hockey team during the 2022-23 Rivalry Series against Canada and has since participated in three World Championship teams, securing gold medals in 2023 and 2025.
The U.S. Women’s Hockey team roster for the 2026 Olympics includes a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, with Haley Winn positioned as a crucial defensive player. The team is coached by John Wroblewski, with Shari Dickerman and Josh Sciba serving as assistant coaches. The team’s staff also includes a dedicated team of trainers, physicians, and support personnel.
As the Olympic Games approach, Haley Winn and her teammates are focused on their preparation. The team will face a challenging field of competitors, including Canada, who will undoubtedly be a formidable opponent. The U.S. Team’s performance in Milano Cortina will be closely watched by fans across the country, with the hopes of bringing home another gold medal.