NEW YORK, NY — Ashley Johnston and Kiira Dosdall are returning to the New York Riveters for the 2016-2017 NWHL season, General Manager Chad Wiseman announced Tuesday. Johnston and Dosdall, who both logged major minutes on the blue line last year, each signed one-year contracts worth $13,500.
“Johnston earned the respect of her teammates not only due to her competitive nature and work ethic on the ice, but how she handled herself as a professional off the ice as well,” said Wiseman. “Stretch (Johnston) rose to the occasion last season facing opposing teams’ top lines. We’re thrilled to have her back.”
Johnston recorded 7 points (1g, 6a) in 16 regular season games for the Riveters last season and appeared in both playoffs games against the Boston Pride. The Burlington, Ontario native was also honored for her leadership as the first Riveter to wear the “C”.
“Next year, I hope to bring leadership and a never-give-up work ethic,” said Johnston. “I’m ecstatic to be back with Riveters and can’t wait to start getting some W’s.”
Dosdall appeared in all 18 regular season and both playoff games for the Riveters, notching a total of 8 points (2g, 6a).
“Dosdall may have been one of the most underrated defensemen in the league last season,” said Wiseman. “She is a big strong physical presence, has a great first pass, sees the ice well and has a great attitude. We expect Kiira to continue to be part of our leadership group this coming season.”
“I am incredibly honored and excited to be signing a new contract with the Riveters,” said Dosdall. “I can’t wait to build off the momentum of the inaugural season and, together with the returning players, further cement the core value of Riveters hockey: hard work, modesty and teamwork.”
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.
(Photo by Troy Parla)
