Hilary Knight Leaves Lasting Legacy as Visionary for Team USA

The 5-time Olympian has been instrumental in growing women's hockey in the U.S.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Hilary Knight, a hockey legend from the Midwest, has made an indelible mark on the sport of women's hockey in the United States. From her record-breaking career at the University of Wisconsin to her instrumental role in the founding of the Professional Women's Hockey League, Knight has been a driving force in elevating the game and creating opportunities for aspiring female athletes. As she competes in her fifth consecutive Olympic Games in 2026, Knight hopes to inspire the next generation of players and cement her legacy as a true visionary for Team USA.

Why it matters

Hilary Knight's story highlights the growth and progress of women's hockey in the U.S., which has faced historical challenges in gaining recognition and resources compared to the men's game. Her achievements on the ice and her advocacy off it have helped pave the way for increased visibility, professionalization, and opportunities for female hockey players.

The details

Knight's hockey journey began in her hometown of Lake Forest, Illinois, where she honed her skills playing alongside mostly boys. She went on to have a record-breaking career at the University of Wisconsin, scoring 143 goals - the most by any player, male or female, in Badgers history. After college, Knight was instrumental in the founding of the Professional Women's Hockey League, serving as captain of the Boston Fleet. She has represented the U.S. in four Olympic Games, winning gold in 2018 and silver medals in 2010, 2014, and 2022.

  • Hilary Knight was born in 1989.
  • She played for the University of Wisconsin from 2007 to 2012.
  • Knight made her Olympic debut at the 2010 Vancouver Games.
  • She won Olympic gold with Team USA in 2018.
  • Knight is competing in her fifth consecutive Olympic Games in 2026 in Milan.

The players

Hilary Knight

A 36-year-old hockey player from Lake Forest, Illinois who has represented the U.S. in five consecutive Olympic Games, winning gold in 2018 and silver medals in 2010, 2014, and 2022.

Cammi Granato

A legendary Olympian and captain of the 1998 U.S. Women's Hockey team that won the gold medal.

John Wroblewski

The head coach of the U.S. Women's Hockey team, who describes Knight as a 'true leader' for the squad.

Caroline Harvey

An emerging young athlete who is skating alongside Knight on the 2026 U.S. Olympic team.

Laila Edwards

Another up-and-coming player who is part of the 2026 U.S. Olympic hockey team with Knight.

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What they’re saying

“Hilary Knight is a true leader and we have great hopes for the team as they wind up their time in Milan.”

— John Wroblewski, U.S. Women's Hockey Head Coach (cuatower.com)

What’s next

Knight hopes to lead the U.S. Women's Hockey team to another gold medal in her final Olympic appearance in the 2026 Winter Games in Milan.

The takeaway

Hilary Knight's remarkable career and pioneering efforts off the ice have cemented her legacy as a visionary for women's hockey in the United States. Her inspiring journey from a young player in the Midwest to a five-time Olympian has paved the way for increased visibility, professionalization, and opportunities for female athletes in the sport.