New York Sirens bolster team with rookie sensation Sarah Fillier

In the United States, the New York Sirens, entering their second season in the Premier Women's Hockey League (PWHL), are poised for a fresh start after a challenging inaugural year. With the introduction of rookie star Sarah Fillier, a celebrated player recognized for her exceptional skills and achievements, the team hopes to enhance its offensive capabilities. Under the guidance of new head coach Greg Fargo, the Sirens are focusing on teamwork and cohesion to improve their performance following a troubled previous season where they struggled by only scoring 31 goals across 24 games and allowing 67 goals against them. Fillier's arrival is seen as a pivotal moment for the team, which previously finished last in the league. The Sirens have a new-look roster, including Swedish player Maja Nylen Persson and Finnish forward Noora Tulus, both of whom are expected to contribute significantly. The dynamic between veteran player Alex Carpenter and Fillier has already shown promise, as Carpenter noted the excitement of playing alongside Fillier rather than against her. This camaraderie and synergy on the ice are seen as essential for the Sirens to compete effectively in the upcoming season. Compounding the team's struggles last year was their lack of a permanent home base, forcing them to split their games across different venues in three states. This nomadic existence disrupted their performance and fan engagement, as the team only drew a total of 29,952 fans over 12 home games. This season, the Sirens have secured a permanent home at New Jersey's Prudential Center, which will not only provide stability but also aims to foster greater support from the local community. The general manager, Pascal Daoust, expressed optimism about the team's future and its potential for growth in the region. The Sirens are also committed to engaging with youth hockey programs in New Jersey, aiming to build grassroots support for the sport. This strategy is anticipated to enhance the team's visibility and encourage local involvement in women's hockey, contributing to a more robust and supportive fan base moving forward. The hope is that with these changes and the talent now on the roster, the New York Sirens will significantly improve their standings in the league and create a more competitive environment within women's hockey.