Christina Scalese ’26 named to USA Hockey’s U18 world championship squad

Christina Scalese ’26 has been named to USA Hockey’s twenty-five-player roster for the U.S. Under-18 Women’s National Team that will compete in the 2025 International Ice Hockey Federation Under-18 Women’s World Championship this coming January in Vantaa, Finland.

According to USA Hockey, the U.S. roster includes nine players from Massachusetts, four from Minnesota, two from Illinois, and one from Alaska, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Vermont and is made up of fourteen forwards, eight defenders, and three goaltenders. 

“This has been a goal for her,” said Groton Girls Hockey Coach Tim LeRoy. “She’s always set high expectations for herself. And now she can say that she’s one of the best U18 players in the country.”

Tina played on the national U15 team last year and wanted a chance to compete with older players. 

“She was determined to find a way back this year,” said Mr. LeRoy.

Tina was originally one of the last cuts made during team selection, Mr. LeRoy said. After USA Hockey management looked more closely at its roster, however, it felt her inclusion made for a better squad. 

“It’s a huge thing for our program,” he said. “It’s awesome. And it’s also pretty cool that her teammates are so excited for her.” 

The world championship tournament—set for January 4–12, 2025—continues a special year for Tina. This past February, she became the first player in Groton girls hockey history to reach 100 points in a career.

The U.S. has medaled in every IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship and has played in all but one of the sixteen gold-medal games contested. Team USA has nine gold medals, six silver medals, and one bronze medal to its credit all-time.