Laguna Hills native and Anaheim Lady Ducks graduate Annie Pankowski was tabbed as the first overall selection in today’s NWHL Draft by the Metropolitan Riveters.

Pankowski currently sits second in University of Wisconsin scoring with 14 goals and 23 points in 18 games as a senior.

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“Annie is a fabulous, dynamic forward who quite simply is one of the best players in the game today,” said Riveters coach Randy Velischek. “The Riveters are proud to select her with the first overall pick, and we wish her well in the remainder of this season.”

Badgers assistant coach Jackie Crum knows what the Riveters are getting with Pankowski.

“Annie is a strong, dynamic hockey player who is a threat to score any time she touches the puck,” said Crum. “She has one of the hardest shots in college hockey and is a great leader, on and off the ice.”

Pankowski said she is excited to see what the future holds after the 2018-19 season.

“It’s been amazing to watch the NWHL grow and I’m so honored to be drafted as a part of it,” Pankowski said. “It’s inspiring to watch the league continue to grow the game.”

In addition, Los Gatos native Lauren Boyle (Ohio State University) was taken in the third round (14th overall) by the Minnesota Whitecaps.

Photo/Wisconsin Athletics

(Dec. 19, 2018)