U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Named Amanda Kessel to 2026 Class
The three-time Olympic medalist was officially selected for the prestigious honor on September 10, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Hockey
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On September 10, 2026, the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame inducted Amanda Kessel into its 2026 class. Kessel, a decorated athlete, earned three Olympic medals and three NCAA championships throughout her career.
Why it matters
Kessel's induction recognizes her significant contributions to the sport, spanning from her standout collegiate years to her international success with Team USA.
Kessel recorded 101 points in 41 games during the 2012-13 season and won the Patty Kazmaier Award that same year. Her career includes 19 points in the 2011 tournament, alongside three Olympic medals and three NCAA titles.
The players
Amanda Kessel
She is a decorated American hockey player who secured three Olympic medals and three NCAA championships during her career.
U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame
This organization preserves the history of American hockey and honors those who have made significant contributions to the sport in the United States.
Pittsburgh Penguins
This is a professional ice hockey team based in Pennsylvania that competes in the National Hockey League.
The details
Kessel, who hails from Wisconsin, famously scored the game-winning goal in the 2016 national championship game following her return to competitive play after concussion treatment. Before her induction, she also transitioned into the professional side of the sport through a front office role with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Timeline
Kessel scored 101 points in one season during 2012-13.
Kessel made her Olympic debut in 2014.
Team USA won Olympic gold in 2018.
Kessel was named to the Hall of Fame on September 10, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Kessel's induction reflects a broader trend of honoring collegiate pioneers who successfully transitioned to long-term international success. This trajectory highlights how elite NCAA performance remains a primary driver for historical recognition in the sport.
Kessel's 101-point 2012-13 season remains a benchmark for individual scoring dominance in women's collegiate hockey. Her recognition solidifies her legacy as a cornerstone for future generations of players aiming for both NCAA and Olympic achievement.
The takeaway
Kessel's career highlights the resilience required to maintain excellence after injury and the value of contributing to the sport in both player and management roles. Readers can see her journey as a case study in athletic longevity and high-level performance consistency.
Further reading
For more on the history of the sport, visit the Hockey section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Minnesota Daily.
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