The DICK'S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Penguins Elite kicked off the 2024-25 season with an exciting opening weekend at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex. The event showcased the dedication and enthusiasm of young female hockey players across seven teams, ranging from 10U to 19U.

New Leadership for the Girls Hockey Program

The energy of the new season is further amplified by the addition of several distinguished leaders committed to advancing girls' hockey:

• Sean O’Brien has been named Vice President of Community and Hockey Development for the Pittsburgh Penguins. He will oversee all amateur hockey operations, including the Pens Elite Hockey Program and the Excel Hockey Academy ensuring the continued growth and success of female athletes within the organization.

• Kathy Pippy returns as Senior Advisor to the Girls' Hockey Program. As the Vice President of Girls' Hockey Operations for 200x85 and Special Advisor to the GM for PWHL Ottawa, Kathy has a long history of advancing female hockey, including founding Pittsburgh’s first Tier I Girls' team and the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite Hockey Girls' organization.

• Shaun Suisham has been appointed as the new Director of the Girls' Hockey Program. With a background as a Division 1 football recruit and an 11-year career in the NFL, Shaun brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role. Having grown up playing hockey in Wallaceburg, Ontario, he has a deep-rooted passion for the sport of hockey. Shaun is dedicated to providing every player the opportunity to succeed both on and off the ice and has been instrumental in the growth of girls' hockey throughout Western PA.

• Brittany Howard joins as Head Coach for the 16U and 19U Girls' teams. Transitioning from her professional playing career in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL), Brittany’s experience in the Professional Hockey Federation (PHF), Canadian Women's Hockey League (CWHL), and her college achievements at Robert Morris University will greatly benefit the development of the players.

Looking Ahead

With these new appointments and the energy of the opening weekend, the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite's girls' hockey program is set for a promising season. The organization remains dedicated to supporting and inspiring young female hockey players, providing them with the resources and opportunities to excel both on and off the ice.

As the 2024-25 season unfolds, we eagerly anticipate the continued success and development of the Pittsburgh Penguins Girls' Hockey teams. Wishing them a season filled with achievements and growth!