Introduction
Kelly Pannek is a name that resonates within the world of women’s ice hockey. Born on December 29, 1995, in Plymouth, Minnesota, Pannek has emerged as a highly skilled and accomplished player in the sport. Her journey from a young girl with a passion for hockey to an Olympic gold medalist is a testament to her dedication, talent, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. In this article, we delve into the life and achievements of Kelly Pannek, exploring her rise to success and the impact she has made in women’s ice hockey.
Kelly Pannek Age And Height
Kelly Pannek was born on December 29, 1995. Therefore, as of that time, her age would have been 25 years old and Height. 5’8″ / 173 cm
Early Years and Introduction to Hockey
Growing up in a sports-loving family, Kelly Pannek was introduced to hockey at a young age. With her father being a former college hockey player, the sport was a natural part of her upbringing. Pannek’s passion for hockey ignited early on, and she began playing in local youth leagues, showcasing her talent and determination.
Pannek attended Benilde-St. Margaret’s School in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, where she continued to develop her skills on the ice. Her exceptional play caught the attention of scouts and college coaches, laying the foundation for her future success in the sport.
College Career at the University of Minnesota
Kelly Pannek’s outstanding abilities and potential did not go unnoticed by college hockey programs. She ultimately decided to play for the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, one of the most prestigious women’s hockey programs in the United States. Pannek’s time at Minnesota would prove to be instrumental in her development as a player.
As a forward for the Golden Gophers, Pannek made an immediate impact. Her exceptional playmaking abilities, hockey sense, and offensive prowess made her an integral part of the team’s success. She consistently ranked among the team’s leading scorers, contributing to multiple conference championships and deep runs in the NCAA tournament.
Pannek’s individual achievements were equally impressive. She was recognized as an All-American and was a finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Award, which honors the top player in women’s college hockey. Her consistent performances and leadership qualities earned her the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
International Success
Kelly Pannek’s talent extended beyond the college level, as she represented Team USA in various international competitions. Her international career showcased her skills and established her as one of the premier players in the world of women’s ice hockey.
One of Pannek’s career highlights came in 2018 when she competed in the Winter Olympics held in Pyeongchang, South Korea. As a member of Team USA, she played a pivotal role in their journey to a historic gold medal. Pannek’s playmaking ability and clutch performances were vital in the team’s success, as she notched crucial assists and displayed exceptional hockey IQ throughout the tournament.
In addition to the Olympics, Pannek also represented Team USA in multiple IIHF Women’s World Championships. Her contributions to the team’s success were significant, helping secure gold and silver medals in different years. Her skill, vision, and ability to perform under pressure solidified her reputation as a top-tier player in the international arena.
Professional Career
Following her successful college career, Kelly Pannek transitioned to professional hockey. In 2019, she joined the Minnesota Whitecaps of the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL), further cementing her status as a top player in the sport.
Pannek’s impact in the professional ranks was immediate. She showcased her skill, hockey IQ, and playmaking abilities, making significant contributions to the Whitecaps’ success. Her presence on the ice elevated the team’s performance and established her as a leader both on and off the ice.
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Net Worth
Kelly Pannek’s net worth is $3 Million 2023. Kelly Pannek is an American ice hockey player with the PWHPA and the United States women’s national ice hockey team