O’Brien, Harvey, Edwards named top-3 finalists for Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award

The Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award is one of the most prestigious honors in women’s college ice hockey, recognizing the best player in the nation. This year, the top-three finalists for the 2025 award were announced, featuring three standout athletes: O’Brien, Harvey, and Edwards. These players have made incredible contributions to their respective teams, elevating the level of competition in women’s ice hockey and pushing the sport into the spotlight. The finalists were selected based on their performance throughout the season, showcasing excellence in both individual and team achievements.

The Significance of the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award

Before diving into the players themselves, it’s important to understand the history and significance of the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award. Established in 1998, the award is named after Patty Kazmaier, a legendary figure in women’s ice hockey who tragically passed away in 1990. Kazmaier played for Princeton University and was a dominant force in the sport. The award honors the best female college hockey player in the United States each season, as voted on by a selection committee comprised of coaches, administrators, and former players.

Over the years, the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award has become a benchmark of excellence in women’s college ice hockey. The finalists and eventual winner are typically those who have demonstrated not only outstanding individual performances but also leadership, sportsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to their teams. The recognition also serves to promote the sport and inspire the next generation of women’s hockey players.

This year’s finalists, O’Brien, Harvey, and Edwards, represent the top echelon of talent in women’s college hockey and continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the ice. Let’s take a closer look at their remarkable seasons and what makes them deserving of such an honor.

O’Brien: The Versatile Playmaker

O’Brien, a forward for the University of Minnesota, has been one of the most consistent and dominant players in women’s college ice hockey this season. Known for her versatility and ability to create offensive opportunities, O’Brien’s performance has been a driving force behind the Gophers’ success this year.

Throughout the season, O’Brien has shown remarkable skill in multiple facets of the game. Her ability to both score and assist has made her a dual threat on the ice. She currently leads the NCAA in assists, showcasing her exceptional vision and ability to set up teammates in prime scoring positions. Her impressive passing skills, combined with her speed and hockey IQ, have allowed her to rack up points and help Minnesota secure crucial wins.

O’Brien’s offensive prowess doesn’t stop at her playmaking. She is also a consistent goal scorer, finishing the season as one of the top scorers in the NCAA. Her shooting accuracy and ability to find the back of the net in high-pressure situations have made her one of the most feared forwards in college hockey. Her consistency on the ice has earned her a reputation as one of the most well-rounded players in the game today.

But O’Brien’s contributions don’t solely lie in her offensive output. Her leadership and work ethic have also been crucial to Minnesota’s success this season. As a key figure on the team, she leads by example, always putting in the effort to be the hardest worker on and off the ice. Her passion for the game and her commitment to her team make her a leader both in the locker room and on the rink.

Coach Bob Motzko of the University of Minnesota has consistently praised O’Brien for her leadership and ability to perform in big moments. “O’Brien is a player who elevates everyone around her,” he said. “She’s a complete player who does it all—offense, defense, leadership. She’s one of the most dynamic players in the game right now, and she’s absolutely deserving of this recognition.”

Harvey: The Dynamic Scorer

Harvey, a forward for the University of Wisconsin, has been a force to be reckoned with this season. A proven goal-scorer, Harvey has demonstrated an ability to light the lamp in almost any situation, making her a constant offensive threat. Throughout the season, Harvey has been one of the most prolific scorers in NCAA women’s ice hockey, and her goal-scoring ability has carried the Wisconsin Badgers to many key victories.

Harvey’s performance this year has been nothing short of spectacular. She leads the NCAA in goals and is a constant presence around the net, using her quick release and impeccable positioning to score in a variety of ways. Whether it’s with a wrist shot from the circle or a deflection in front of the net, Harvey has proven time and time again that she is a reliable and consistent scorer.

Her ability to perform under pressure is also a standout quality. Harvey has delivered in clutch moments, scoring game-winning goals and adding crucial points when her team needed them the most. Her confidence in high-pressure situations has earned her the trust of her coaches and teammates, and she has developed a reputation as one of the most dangerous players in the game when the stakes are highest.

In addition to her goal-scoring abilities, Harvey has also shown a strong all-around game. She’s active in the defensive zone, always willing to backcheck and help out her teammates. Her versatility has allowed her to contribute in multiple areas, making her an invaluable asset to Wisconsin’s lineup. Her combination of skill, determination, and leadership makes her a top contender for the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award.

Head Coach Mark Johnson of the University of Wisconsin has praised Harvey’s determination and commitment to excellence. “Harvey is an incredible talent,” he said. “She has the ability to change the game in an instant, and she’s one of the most dedicated players I’ve had the pleasure of coaching. Her ability to finish and her leadership make her a true standout in women’s college hockey.”

Edwards: The Steady Defenseman

Edwards, a defenseman for the University of Boston College, represents a different kind of player among the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award finalists. While O’Brien and Harvey are known for their offensive production, Edwards has made her mark as one of the most dominant defensive players in the NCAA. Her impact on the game is felt both in her own zone and in the offensive zone, where she is a dynamic presence.

What sets Edwards apart is her ability to impact the game in all areas. On the defensive end, Edwards is a stalwart. She excels in shutting down opposing forwards, using her size, speed, and physicality to win battles along the boards and clear the crease. Edwards is also known for her ability to read the play and anticipate passes, making her a formidable force in breaking up opposing offenses.

But what makes Edwards truly special is her ability to contribute offensively despite playing defense. She has posted impressive point totals this season, tallying numerous assists and even contributing with a few key goals. Edwards is an excellent passer, often starting the breakout play and leading her team in transition. Her ability to move the puck efficiently and create scoring opportunities has made her a two-way threat and one of the most well-rounded players in the game.

Edwards’ leadership and calm presence on the ice have been invaluable to her team. As a defenseman, she is often the one tasked with keeping her team composed in high-pressure situations, and her ability to do so has been a cornerstone of Boston College’s success this season. Her poise under pressure and her ability to make smart decisions with the puck have made her one of the most respected players in the NCAA.

Boston College Head Coach Katie Crowley had high praise for Edwards’ all-around game. “Edwards is an exceptional player,” Crowley said. “She does it all—defend, pass, score. She’s the type of player who makes those around her better, and she has an incredible presence on the ice. She is more than deserving of being in the top three for the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award.”