Boston, MA – The Boston Fleet announced today the re-signing of forwards Jill Saulnier and Theresa Schafzahl, each to a one-year Standard Player Agreement through the 2025–26 Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) season.
Jill Saulnier — Veteran Leadership Returns
A native of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Saulnier appeared in 19 games with the Fleet in 2024–25, tallying 2 goals and 3 assists. Initially selected 40th overall by New York in the inaugural PWHL Draft, the 33-year-old veteran began the season with the Sirens before being acquired by Boston in a midseason trade for forward Taylor Girard.
“Jill made an immediate impact the moment she joined us,” said Fleet GM Danielle Marmer. “Her leadership, grit, and locker room presence elevate the group on and off the ice. She’s the type of player who competes with heart and lifts up everyone around her.”
Internationally, Saulnier boasts an impressive résumé with Team Canada, capturing Olympic gold (2022) and silver (2018), along with four IIHF Women’s World Championship medals. She also played in the CWHL (2015–19) and PWHPA (2019–23). As a collegiate star at Cornell University, she logged 195 points (80G, 115A) over 125 games and was a Patty Kazmaier Top 3 Finalist in 2013–14.
“Boston feels like home,” said Saulnier. “There’s something special about this team and city, and I’m grateful to be part of it again. Go Fleet!”
Theresa Schafzahl — Offensive Upside & All-Around Impact
Weiz, Austria native Theresa Schafzahl returns after a full season with the Fleet, appearing in all 30 games and contributing 3 goals and 2 assists. Selected 39th overall by Boston in the inaugural PWHL Draft, Schafzahl etched her name in franchise history by scoring the first goal ever for the Fleet during the club’s home debut on January 3, 2024.
In her rookie campaign, she finished with 6 regular season points (3G, 3A) and added 3 playoff assists across 8 games.
“Theresa brings speed, tenacity, and intelligence to every shift,” said Marmer. “She’s disruptive on the forecheck, smart with the puck, and plays with purpose. We’re excited to see her take on even more responsibility this season.”
A standout at the University of Vermont, Schafzahl holds program records in goals, assists, and points, and continues to lead Austria’s national team. She helped Austria secure promotion to the IIHF’s top division by posting 6 points in 5 games at the 2025 Division 1 Group A Championship in China.
“Boston has truly become a second home,” said Schafzahl. “I’m grateful to be back and excited to chase another championship with this team.”
Saulnier and Schafzahl join eight Fleet players already under contract for 2025–26, including forward Susanna Tapani, who also re-signed today.
