Caitlin Kraemer becomes first woman to join Edmonton Oilers development camp

Mental Reset and Summer Training Adjustments

20-year-old Caitlin Kraemer opened up about the physical and mental toll of her previous campaign. Speaking to The Ice Garden, Kraemer described her summer as awesome and necessary for rediscovering her confidence after missing out on Canada’s Olympic team. The process required intense months of focus that ultimately did not fall in her favor, creating a significant setback. To counter the fatigue, Kraemer prioritized time off and adjusted her training regimen. Instead of her usual summer routine of training with boys, she focused on individual sessions and small group work with close friends, skating alongside Wisconsin’s Emma Venusio and Princeton’s Mackenzie Alexander.

During these individualized sessions, Kraemer systematically broke down her game, identifying existing strengths while refining areas needing improvement. This focused approach allowed her to work on nutrition, mental conditioning, and on-ice mechanics.

Breaking Ground at Edmonton Oilers Development Camp

In July, Kraemer made history alongside Minnesota defender Chloe Primerano and Seattle Torrent draft pick Abbey Murphy by becoming the first women to participate in an NHL development camp. The trio joined the Edmonton Oilers, stepping onto the ice with team prospects and experiencing professional-level training firsthand. Kraemer noted that the Oilers treated the women like organization prospects, offering comprehensive off-ice, on-ice, nutrition, and mental training sessions.

Reflecting on the experience, Kraemer highlighted the welcoming nature of the Oilers prospects and the value of exchanging insights on their respective hockey journeys within the WCHA and collegiate ranks. While public reactions online varied, the on-ice environment remained collaborative and focused purely on professional skill acquisition.

Leadership and Outlook for the Bulldogs

As the University of Minnesota Duluth prepares for the competitive stretch of the season, Kraemer steps into her newly appointed role as co-captain carrying valuable lessons from her busy summer. The experience of balancing national team camp travel—which routinely pulled her away from the Bulldogs for two-week blocks during the first half of the 2025-26 season—tested her ability to build team chemistry. Having processed the disappointment of missing the Olympic roster, Kraemer enters the current slate with renewed confidence, strengthened resilience, and a clearer perspective on her leadership responsibilities within the program.

Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.