Troy Mi.– The Women’s Division 2 of the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) is proud to announce Katelyn Koester, Niagara University, as the recipient of the 2023-2024 Zoe Harris National Player of the Year Award.
This award is named in honor of Zoe Harris, the first Women’s Division Vice President, a member of the ACHA Hall of Fame, and a trailblazer for women’s hockey in the ACHA and beyond. The selection criteria includes outstanding individual and team skills, sportsmanship, on ice performance, personal character, competitiveness and a love of hockey. Consideration is also given to academic achievement.
Based on multiple nominations, including directly from Niagara’s leadership as well as fellow opponents of Niagara, Koester was ultimately selected as this year’s Zoe Harris Award Winner through a voting process decided by Women’s D2 coaches.
Throughout the 2023-24 season, Koester was a key contributor to Niagara’s success. In her 19 appearances, she amassed an impressive 48 points, including 21 goals and 27 assists. She was the leading points scorer in Niagara’s conference, College Hockey East (CHE), and #6 for total points across all of Women’s D2. Koester’s ability to perform under pressure and make a difference for her team when it matters most was highlighted by four game-winning goals.
Beyond her competitive on-ice achievements, Koester displays resilience and determination by overcoming unique challenges she faces as a deaf hockey player. Overall, Koester has represented her team, and the ACHA, with poise and passion for the sport.
The ACHA congratulates Koester on this well-deserved award based on her outstanding performance as a player in Women’s D2 during the 2023-24 season. Her achievements exemplify the spirit of collegiate hockey and serve as an inspiration to players across the country.
(Photo provided by ACHA)
