The Hockey Commissioners Association has announced that Ohio State graduate defenseman Cayla Barnes is the National Co-Player of the Month for March.

Barnes was a rock on defense for the Buckeyes and also set up the only goal of the NCAA championship final as Ohio State knocked off Wisconsin.

She was a key part of the OSU defense that only allowed a single goal in three NCAA games and she went 2-7-9 in production from the blue line on the month. A first team all-WCHA performer, she was named to the all-tournament team for the NCAAs and was a second team All-American.

This season, Barnes finished with 11 goals and 36 points in 39 games.

During her youth career, the Eastvale native skated for the Anaheim Jr. Ducks, Anaheim Lady Ducks and Los Angeles Jr. Kings.

Photo/Ohio State Athletics

(April 6, 2024)