BROOKLYN, NY – Madison Packer said at the conclusion of last season that she was done, but she has had a change of heart. The league and Riveters have welcomed Packer back with open arms, and the rugged and popular forward has signed a contract for the upcoming season.
“I was a little banged up at the end of last year, but got patched up over the summer and I’m thrilled to be a Riveter for another season,” said Packer. “It will be great to be 100 percent again. Looking at the roster, we have a strong group. We have a lot of talent in the room, both returning and new players, and we have a real shot at winning the Cup this year. I’m anxious to get to work with this crew.”
The 5-9 forward from Michigan, who was a member of the U19 Little Caesars hockey team in Detroit, scored 8 goals in 17 games last season. Over two years with the Riveters, Packer was 11-9-20.
At Wisconsin from 2010-2014, Packer was 46-58-104 in 146 games and won the NCAA championship with the Badgers in 2011. During her senior year, she was named to the All-WCHA Academic Team. She also won gold with Team USA at the 2008 and 2009 IIHF U18 World Championships.
Packer, who is the director of the New Jersey Rockets girls’ program, released this statement:
“I want to express how humbled I am by the opportunity to play another year in the NWHL. I had some changes in my personal life that enabled me to stay in New York, and I reached out to the NWHL Players’ Association and Commissioner Dani Rylan about the opportunity to come out of my short-lived retirement and play another season.
“In my time away from the game, I realized I wasn’t ready to walk away, and I missed the camaraderie and friendships that come with being part of a team. I am grateful to the league for their support, and willingness to bring me back on board.
“Last year I was vocal about some issues, but I have a lot of respect for Dani, Hayley Moore and the NWHLPA for putting the past aside and moving forward on solid, restored grounds. The NWHL has grown tremendously this off-season, and I look forward to promoting the continued success of the women’s game, my fellow players and those who work tirelessly behind the scenes.”
