The New York Sirens have officially signed defender Lauren Bernard to a Standard Player Agreement (SPA) with the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) for the remainder of the 2024-25 season. The promising 23-year-old rookie was previously a member of the Toronto Sceptres, where she was listed on the team’s Reserve Player list.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Lauren to the Sirens family,” said Pascal Daoust, General Manager of the New York Sirens. “Lauren was a highly sought-after talent in the draft due to her exceptional skating—both with and without the puck—her vision on the ice, and the invaluable experience she gained with her championship-winning team. As a rookie, our goal is to provide her with the time and resources needed to develop while maintaining a strong, future-ready defensive core.”
Hailing from Madison, Ohio, Bernard was selected by Toronto in the fourth round of the 2024 PWHL Draft. During her time with the Sceptres this season, she appeared in 15 games, contributing one assist. Her collegiate career began with two seasons at Clarkson University before she transferred to Ohio State University, where she spent three seasons and became a two-time NCAA National Champion. A standout both academically and athletically, Bernard was a three-time OSU Scholar-Athlete and played in 118 games for the Buckeyes, amassing 15 goals, 47 assists, and 105 blocked shots.
Joining the Sirens reunites Bernard with familiar faces, including former Ohio State teammates Paetyn Levis and Gabby Rosenthal, as well as former Clarkson teammates Élizabeth Giguère and Ella Shelton. Her connections and experience add a layer of chemistry and depth to the team’s defensive unit.
In a corresponding roster move, the Sirens have placed defender Olivia Knowles on the Reserve Player list, ensuring roster flexibility as the season progresses.
The Sirens are excited to integrate Bernard into their lineup and look forward to watching her growth and contributions on the ice.
