NEW YORK – The New York Sirens announced today that Swedish defender Maja Nylén Persson has signed a contract extension that will keep her with the club through the 2027‑28 Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) season.
Drafted 10th overall in 2024, Nylén Persson originally signed a three‑year Standard Player Agreement and quickly established herself as one of the league’s top rookie defenders, finishing third among first‑year blueliners with six points (2G, 4A) in 23 games.
GM Statement
“Building is about taking care of both the present and the future,” said Sirens General Manager Pascal Daoust. “Securing Maja for the next three seasons brings world‑class talent to a key position, along with leadership and work ethic that align perfectly with our pursuit of excellence. She is an athlete with limitless potential, and one I hope our fans will enjoy and celebrate for many years to come.”
Professional Career
The 24‑year‑old from Avesta, Sweden, entered the PWHL with extensive professional experience after eight standout seasons in the Swedish Women’s Hockey League (SDHL). With Brynäs IF, she was named SDHL Defender of the Year three consecutive times (2022–24) while leading all defenders in scoring each season.
Player Statement
“I’m super excited to extend my contract with the Sirens,” said Nylén Persson. “I can’t wait to continue building with this organization for many years to come — and of course, to keep playing in front of our amazing fans.”
International Experience
On the international stage, Nylén Persson is a two‑time Olympian, representing Sweden at PyeongChang 2018 and Beijing 2022. She has competed in five IIHF Women’s World Championships, earning recognition as one of Sweden’s Top 3 players in 2019, 2022, and 2024. In 2022, she also made history as the first woman to win the Salming Trophy, awarded to the best Swedish‑born defender playing in the country.
Building the Blue Line
At 5’5”, Nylén Persson becomes the third Sirens player signed through 2027‑28, joining 2025 first overall pick Kristýna Kaltounková and second‑round pick Anne Cherkowski. She remains a cornerstone of New York’s defense, which also features captain Micah Zandee‑Hart, Jaime Bourbonnais, Allyson Simpson, Jincy Roese, and Lauren Bernard under contract for the 2025‑26 season.
