NEW YORK, NY — Morgan Fritz-Ward and Madison Packer are the first players to sign contracts with the New York Riveters for the 2016-2017 NWHL season, General Manager Chad Wiseman announced Wednesday. Fritz-Ward and Packer, whose leadership earned them assistant captain roles last year, each signed one-year contracts worth $15,000.
“Fritz-Ward’s speed, relentless work ethic and ability to play in any game situation make her a huge asset to our team,” said Wiseman. “She’s a leader both on and off the ice, and having her back in a Riveters jersey is an important first step for our club’s success next season.”
The Mason City, Iowa native recorded 6 points (4g, 2a) in 17 games for the Riveters last season, but didn’t appear in either of the two playoffs games against the Boston Pride due to an upper body injury.
“I’m very honored and excited to be welcomed back by the Riveters and can’t wait to get the season started,” said Fritz-Ward. “ I hope to bring back a strong work ethic and high energy to the line-up next season.”
“Packer is a natural leader and a proven winner at the college level,” said Wiseman. “She’s someone we will rely on to help the young players make the transition from college to professional hockey.”
Packer appeared in 16 regular season games for the Riveters, tallying 7 points (3g, 4a). In the Isobel Cup Playoffs, the Detroit native tallied another goal for a season total of four.
“I’m so excited and humbled to return to the Riveters next season,” said Packer. “I am extremely grateful to my friends and especially my family for all the love, support and encouragement they have shown me.”
“I think I learned a lot last year on and off the ice,” said Packer. “I’m hoping to take those lessons, both positive and negative, and use them to propel the Riveters through a highly successful second season.”
The Riveters finished their inaugural season in last place place with a 4-12-2 record. In the Isobel Cup semifinals, they faced the top-seeded Boston Pride and dropped the three-games series in two games.
Restricted free agency began April 1 and lasts until April 30. Free agency begins May 1 and lasts until July 31. The 2016 Draft is June 18.
About the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL)
The NWHL is the first professional women’s hockey league in North America to pay its players. The inaugural season began October 11, 2015 with the Founding Four: Boston Pride, Buffalo Beauts, Connecticut Whale and New York Riveters. The Boston Pride became the first team in NWHL history to raise the Isobel Cup on March 12, 2016.
