MEET THE GIRLS
back to the masterlist ; part 2
*The purpose of this post is to make known the girls who will constantly appear in my stories, some having their own series and others with upcoming series*
*The introductions will have a format similar to Wikipedia*
NOTE: IN THIS SERIES OF STORIES UMICH DOES HAVE A WOMEN'S HOCKEY TEAM IN NCAA
THEA BRATT (NEÉ HUGHES)
Date of birth: March 22nd, 1997 birthplace: Orlando, Florida instagram: thea.bratt profession: F1 reporter / Journalist ( cornell university)
General information
Thea Bratt, born Thea Hughes, is an American sports journalist, motorsport presenter, and media personality. She is known for her work covering international motorsport championships, especially Formula 1, as well as for being part of the well-known Hughes family. She is married to professional ice hockey player Jesper Bratt, with whom she has two children.
Early life and education
Thea was born in the United States as the eldest daughter of Jim and Ellen Hughes. She grew up alongside her siblings Quinn, Josephine, Jack, Luke, and Leah Hughes, in a family closely connected to high-performance sports.
During her teenage years, she developed a strong interest in journalism and media, particularly international motorsport. She later studied in New York City, where she built the foundation for her future career in sports journalism.
Career
Sports journalism
Thea began her career working in media outlets specialized in motorsports, standing out for her ability to conduct interviews and reports from the paddock of various international categories.
Over time, she became one of the most recognized presenters in the world of motorsport, covering Formula 1 Grands Prix, promotional events, and exclusive content with drivers, engineers, and teams.
Her work is valued for combining technical knowledge with an accessible approach for new audiences, especially women interested in entering the world of motorsport.
Social media presence
In addition to her television work, Thea maintains a significant presence on social media, where she shares aspects of her professional career, international travel, and family life. She has also participated in campaigns aimed at promoting greater female representation in motorsport.
Personal life
Relationship with Jesper Bratt
In 2017, she met Jesper Bratt through mutual friends while they were both living in the New York area. The couple began dating that same year and later got married.
Thea and Jesper are considered one of the most well-known couples within the New Jersey Devils community.
Family
Thea and Jesper have two children:
• Ludvig Bratt
• Klara Bratt
The family divides much of their time between the United States and Sweden during the NHL offseason.
Thea maintains an especially close relationship with her siblings and in-laws, frequently taking part in family gatherings at the Hughes lake house in Michigan.
Public image
Thea is often described by media outlets and fans as a figure who combines the worlds of motorsport and professional hockey. Her independent career in sports journalism, together with her role within one of the most recognized families in North American hockey, has given her a considerable media presence.
Hughes family
Parents
• Jim Hughes
• Ellen Hughes
Siblings
• Quinn Hughes
• Josephine Hughes
• Jack Hughes
• Luke Hughes
• Leah Hughes
Fun facts
• She is the eldest sibling in the Hughes family.
• She speaks English and Swedish fluently.
• She developed most of her professional career outside of hockey, focusing on motorsport.
• She has been invited to various sports podcasts to talk about women in motorsport and her experience working in Formula 1.
• During the summers, she usually spends long periods of time with her family in Michigan and Sweden.
STELLE BROZOVIC
Date of birth: June 02nd, 1998 birthplace: Toronto, Canada instagram: stellebrozov profession: stay at home mom ( by own decision)
General information
Stelle Brozovic, later Stelle Nylander-Brozovic, is a Canadian public figure known primarily for her relationship with William Nylander and for being part of one of the most recognized families in professional hockey. Over the years, she became a familiar presence within the National Hockey League environment, widely recognized for her role in raising her children and for maintaining a family image highly valued by fans and the media.
Early life
Stelle was born in Canada and has Croatian ancestry. During her teenage years, she lived mainly in Canada and kept a life away from media exposure.
She became a mother at a young age with the birth of her son Theodore, an experience that shaped much of her early adulthood.
Relationship with William Nylander
Beginning of the relationship
Stelle met William Nylander when they were both young. Their relationship began when Theodore was still a baby and quickly became serious.
Months after they started dating, William asked Stelle to move in with him, marking the beginning of a family life that would eventually become one of the most well-known within the NHL world.
Marriage
Although they kept much of their private life away from the media for years, William began publicly referring to Stelle as his wife even before making any formal announcements about their marital status.
The couple eventually solidified their relationship and built a large family together.
Family
Stelle and William had six children:
• Theodore William Nylander-Brozovic
• Wille Alexander Nylander-Brozovic
• Gabriel Michael Nylander-Brozovic
• Camille Stelle Nylander-Brozovic
• Mats Luka Nylander-Brozovic
• Axel Antón Nylander-Brozovic
In addition, William legally adopted Theodore, who officially took the Nylander-Brozovic surname.
Over the years, several of their children pursued careers in professional hockey, turning the Nylander-Brozovic family into one of the most recognizable families in the sport.
Public life
Media presence
Despite maintaining a considerably more private profile than other members of her family, Stelle occasionally appeared in interviews, sports documentaries, and content related to William’s career and their children’s careers.
Her public image became especially established due to the sense of family stability she projected alongside William.
Relationship with Sweden
Due to William’s Swedish roots, Stelle spent long periods living between Canada and Sweden. Over time, she learned aspects of Swedish culture and the Swedish language, becoming fully integrated into the Nylander family.
Nylander-Brozovic family
Spouse
• William Nylander
Children
• Theodore William Nylander-Brozovic
• Wille Alexander Nylander-Brozovic
• Gabriel Michael Nylander-Brozovic
• Camille Stelle Nylander-Brozovic
• Mats Luka Nylander-Brozovic
• Axel Anton Nylander-Brozovic
Legacy
Within the world of professional hockey, Stelle is frequently mentioned as one of the most important figures in the history of the Nylander-Brozovic family. Her role in raising her children, her constant support of William’s career, and the building of a family with multiple professional players turned her into a highly respected figure within the NHL’s close circle.
Fun facts
• She is Canadian with Croatian ancestry.
• She met William when they were both in their early twenties.
• Theodore was raised by William from his earliest years of life.
• Three of her children went on to play in the NHL.
• The family often alternates their residence between Canada and Sweden.
• During various family and sporting events, the children have used the hyphenated surname Nylander-Brozovic as a tribute to both sides of the family.
MADDISON BARZAL (NEÉ MARTIN)
Date of birth: August 24th, 1998 birthplace: Windsor, Canada instagram: madds.martin// maddisonbrazal profession: Lawyer (NYU)
General Information
Maddison Martin is a Canadian-American lawyer specialized in family law and human rights. She is known for her academic background in New York City, her philanthropic work with children’s organizations connected to professional hockey, and her relationship with Mathew Barzal.
Over the years, she became a recognized figure within the New York Islanders community, valued for maintaining an independent professional career while building a long-term relationship with Barzal.
Early life
Maddison was born in Canada and later moved to the United States with her family. She is the younger sister of Matt Martin.
She grew up on Long Island, New York, where she attended Riverdale Country School. From an early age, she stood out for her academic performance and for actively participating in community service and volunteer work.
During her teenage years, she frequently collaborated with the Islanders’ children’s foundation, an experience that significantly influenced her interest in social and legal fields.
Education
Riverdale Country School
During her school years, she was recognized for maintaining excellent academic performance while participating in extracurricular activities related to community service, student leadership, and charity work.
New York University
She later enrolled at New York University, where she completed her undergraduate studies.
After earning her bachelor’s degree, she was admitted to NYU School of Law, one of the most prestigious law schools in the United States.
NYU School of Law
Maddison earned her law degree in the 2020s after completing her studies in family law and human rights.
Her graduation was widely remembered within her close circle because it coincided with an important stage in her relationship with Mathew Barzal.
Career
Law
After graduating, Maddison developed her career in the legal field, focusing mainly on family law and child protection.
Her work was influenced by the experience she gained through years of volunteering with children’s organizations and sports foundations.
Community work
Alongside her legal career, she maintained a close connection with various charitable initiatives linked to youth hockey and organizations dedicated to supporting children and vulnerable families.
Relationship with Mathew Barzal
Beginning of the relationship
Maddison met Mathew Barzal through activities related to the Islanders’ foundation during the early years of the player’s professional career.
Although they initially developed a close friendship, their relationship evolved over time into one of the most well-known couples within the team’s circle.
Engagement and marriage
After several years together and after living together throughout much of her university and professional life, Mathew proposed to her on the same day as her law school graduation.
They later got married in Canada in a private ceremony attended by family, close friends, and members of the professional hockey world.
Personal life
Maddison is known for having a reserved personality and for prioritizing her family life away from media attention.
Over the years, she developed an especially close relationship with young players who joined the Islanders organization, often being described as a protective and maternal figure within her close circle.
Family
Parents
• Jim Martin
Siblings
• Matt Martin
Spouse
• Mathew Barzal
Public image
Within the NHL world, Maddison has been recognized for balancing a demanding academic and professional career with a life connected to high-performance sports.
Her story is often highlighted as an example of professional independence within a media environment where many public figures are known mainly for their personal relationships.
Fun facts
• She grew up on Long Island after moving from Canada.
• She attended Riverdale Country School before enrolling at NYU.
• She participated for years in activities with the Islanders’ foundation.
• She graduated from NYU School of Law.
• She met Mathew Barzal during the early years of his professional career.
• Her marriage proposal happened on the same day as her law school graduation.
• She is considered one of the people closest to the New York Islanders’ family circle.
KENDALL KELLER (NEÉ MILLER-BROWN)
Date of birth: December 25th, 1998 birthplace: creve coeur, misuri instagram:kendallmbrown profession: Pilates instructor ( Human physiology at BU)
General information
Kendall Keller is an entrepreneur, Pilates instructor, and former human physiology student, known for being the founder of a Pilates studio focused on wellness, mobility, and physical performance. She is also recognized for her long-term relationship with Clayton Keller and for being the daughter of former NHL player Jay Miller.
Over the years, she became one of the most well-known figures within the circle of NHL players’ partners, standing out for maintaining an independent career in the world of fitness and health.
Early life
Kendall was born in the United States into a family closely connected to professional hockey.
She is the daughter of Jay Miller, which exposed her from a young age to the world of high-performance sports.
Despite growing up surrounded by hockey, she developed interests related to health, human movement, and physical wellness, leaning toward scientific and sports-related fields outside of professional competition.
Education
Boston University
Kendall studied Human Physiology at Boston University.
During her university years, she developed a particular interest in:
• Biomechanics
• Human anatomy
• Injury prevention
• Physical rehabilitation
• Exercise science
Her academic background directly influenced the later creation of her professional projects within the fitness world.
Career
Pilates and wellness
After completing her university studies, Kendall began working in the field of physical conditioning and training based on functional mobility.
Over time, she founded her own Pilates studio, focused on personalized training, preventive rehabilitation, and body strengthening.
Her methodology is characterized by integrating scientific principles learned during her human physiology studies with modern Pilates techniques and functional movement.
Entrepreneurship
Kendall is considered an entrepreneur within the wellness field, leading programs designed for both athletes and clients focused on general health and quality of life.
After the Keller family’s move to Utah due to Clayton’s franchise relocation, she rebuilt much of her professional project from scratch, later expanding the presence of her studio.
Relationship with Clayton Keller
Beginning of the relationship
Kendall met Clayton Keller during childhood.
They grew up together and developed a close friendship before beginning a romantic relationship during their teenage years.
The couple started dating when they were approximately fourteen years old, eventually becoming one of the longest and most well-known relationships in professional hockey.
Life alongside the NHL
As Clayton progressed toward professional hockey, Kendall remained by his side throughout the different stages of his career.
She was an important figure during difficult periods, including injuries, organizational changes, and the leadership process that culminated in Clayton becoming captain.
Within the circle of players’ partners, she is often known by the nickname “KK.”
Marriage
After more than a decade together, Kendall and Clayton got married in a private and discreet ceremony, keeping the news away from public attention for some time.
Personal life
Kendall is known for having a warm, organized, and protective personality with those close to her.
Within the circle of players’ partners, she often participates in charity activities, family event planning, and community projects connected to the teams Clayton plays for.
She has also spoken publicly about the challenges of building her own professional career while maintaining a relationship with a high-performance athlete.
Public image
Kendall is often highlighted as someone who managed to build an independent professional identity within the sports environment.
Her combination of scientific education, entrepreneurship, and personal stability has made her a highly respected figure within the circle of families connected to the NHL.
She is also frequently mentioned as one of the most stable and long-lasting partners in modern professional hockey.
Family
Parents
• Jay Miller
• Anastasia Brown
Spouse
• Clayton Keller
Fun facts
• She is the daughter of former NHL player Jay Miller.
• She studied Human Physiology at Boston University.
• She met Clayton Keller during childhood.
• She began her relationship with Clayton during adolescence.
• She founded her own Pilates studio.
• Many players’ partners simply call her “KK.”
• She helped reorganize her professional life after the move from Arizona to Utah.
• She is considered one of the most influential figures within the circle of young NHL players’ partners.
• She has participated in podcasts and interviews discussing physical wellness, entrepreneurship, and life within professional hockey.
JOSEPHINE HISCHIER (NEÉ HUGHES)
Date of birth: October 14th, 1999 birthplace: Orlando, Florida instagram:josephinehughes profession: Registered Dietitian (columbia)
General information
Josephine “Joe” Hischier, born Hughes, is an American sports nutritionist, professional athlete performance specialist, and academic. She is known for her work in high-performance sports, particularly with professional hockey organizations, as well as for being part of the Hughes family.
She is married to Nico Hischier, captain of the New Jersey Devils, with whom she has one son.
Early life and education
Josephine was born in the United States and is the daughter of Jim and Ellen Hughes. She is the sister of Quinn Hughes, Jack Hughes, Luke Hughes, Thea Hughes, and Leah Hughes.
From an early age, she showed an interest in health sciences, nutrition, and sports performance, growing up in an environment where professional sports were part of everyday life.
She later enrolled at Columbia University, where she pursued studies related to nutrition, exercise physiology, and sciences applied to athletic performance.
Career
Sports nutrition
During her university years, she began specializing in nutrition applied to high-performance sports, focusing on optimizing recovery, body composition, and hydration in professional athletes.
She later completed professional internships with the New Jersey Devils, where she worked directly with players, coaching staff, and medical personnel.
Her work included:
• Anthropometric assessments
• Individualized nutrition planning
• Hydration strategies
• Post-game recovery monitoring
• Sports supplementation programming
• Nutrition education for professional athletes
Over time, she became one of the most respected professionals within the organization, actively participating in the development of personalized nutrition programs for the players.
Research and teaching
Alongside her practical work, Josephine developed an academic career connected to research in sports science.
She has participated in university seminars and projects related to the impact of nutrition on the performance of elite athletes.
Relationship with Nico Hischier
Beginning of the relationship
Josephine met Nico Hischier during her early years working with the Devils organization.
At first, they maintained a strictly professional relationship due to Josephine’s responsibilities within the team.
Over time, they developed a personal relationship that remained private during its early stages.
Marriage
After several years together, Josephine and Nico formalized their relationship and later got married.
The couple is considered one of the most well-known within the Devils’ circle due to the combination of athletic leadership and academic excellence they both represent.
Personal life
Joe maintains an especially close relationship with all of her siblings, particularly Quinn, Jack, and Luke, who often describe her as one of the most organized and responsible people in the family.
She is also known for maintaining strong bonds with the Devils players’ partners and with families within the organization.
Outside of work, she divides much of her time between New Jersey, New York, and family gatherings in Michigan.
Public image
Josephine is often highlighted by fans and media as someone who managed to build an independent career within professional sports without relying on the notoriety of her family or her relationship with an NHL player.
Her combination of academic excellence, professional discipline, and closeness with athletes has made her a respected figure both inside and outside the locker room.
Hughes family
Parents
• Jim Hughes
• Ellen Hughes
Siblings
• Thea Hughes
• Quinn Hughes
• Jack Hughes
• Luke Hughes
• Leah Hughes
Spouse
• Nico Hischier
Son
• Leon Hischier
Fun facts
• She is Quinn Hughes’ twin sister.
• She studied at Columbia University.
• She developed much of her professional career within the New Jersey Devils.
• She was one of the few members of the Hughes family who chose a path focused on science and sports medicine instead of competing professionally.
• Within her close circle, she is known simply as “Joe.”
• She is considered one of the most influential figures in modern nutritional planning within professional hockey.
OLIVIA CAUFIELD
Date of birth: January 2nd, 2001 birthplace:Mosinee, Wisconsin instagram:livcaufield profession: Architect (NYU)
General information
Olivia Caufield is an American architect and urban-architectural designer. She is known for her academic background in architecture in New York City, for belonging to the Caufield family, and for her relationship with Arber Xhekaj.
Over the years, she became a recognized figure within the Montreal Canadiens community, standing out for maintaining an independent professional career connected to design, architecture, and urban planning. Her education is inspired by urban studies and architecture programs developed at institutions such as New York University.
Early life
Olivia was born in the United States into a family deeply connected to ice hockey.
She is the sister of Cole Caufield, with whom she has maintained an especially close relationship since childhood.
Unlike her brother, Olivia developed interests related to art, design, and the planning of urban spaces, showing a strong inclination toward architecture and cities from a young age.
Education
University studies
After finishing high school, Olivia was admitted to New York University, where she pursued studies related to architecture, urban design, and analysis of the built environment. Programs of this kind at NYU combine architecture, urbanism, art history, and urban planning. (NYU Bulletins)
During her university years, she lived in New York, developing a strong connection with the city’s historic and contemporary architecture.
Architecture and urbanism
Her education focused on:
• Architectural design
• Urban development
• Heritage conservation
• Sustainable architecture
• Planning of public spaces
New York was considered a fundamental influence on her professional vision due to the city’s architectural diversity.
Career
Architecture
After completing her studies, Olivia began working on projects connected to architectural and urban design.
Her work was characterized by combining contemporary elements with approaches centered on functionality and the human experience within urban spaces.
Design and urban projects
In addition to traditional architecture, she participated in initiatives related to community space design, urban planning, and projects aimed at improving the connection between architecture and quality of life.
Relationship with Arber Xhekaj
Beginning of the relationship
Olivia met Arber Xhekaj during the early years of the defenseman’s professional career.
Over time, they developed a stable relationship that became one of the most well-known within the Canadiens’ circle.
Family life
The couple started a family while Arber was establishing his NHL career.
Personal life
Olivia is known for having a calm and private personality, staying away from much of the media exposure associated with professional hockey.
Even so, she often appears alongside family members and close friends during important events related to the Canadiens and her brother Cole’s career.
She also maintains a close friendship with members of the Hughes family circle, including Josephine Hughes, Thea Bratt, and Riley Zegras.
Public image
Olivia has often been highlighted for balancing a professional career outside of sports while building a family life with an NHL player.
Her public profile is usually associated with architecture, motherhood, and family life, and she is valued for maintaining her own professional identity within the sports environment.
Family
Parents
• Kelly Caufield
• Paul Caufield
Siblings
• Cole Caufield
Partner
• Arber Xhekaj
Children
• Noah Xhekaj
Fun facts
• She is Cole Caufield’s twin sister.
• She studied architecture in New York.
• She always showed more interest in design and urbanism than in professional sports.
• Her son Noah was described by family members as an especially large baby at birth.
• She maintains close friendships with several NHL players’ partners.
• She divides much of her time between Montreal, the United States, and travel related to professional projects.
• She is considered one of the most private figures within the close circle of the Montreal Canadiens.
RILEY ZEGRAS
Date of birth:March 20th, 2001 birthplace:Bedford, New York instagram:riley.zegrass profession: currently at Med school (NYU)
General information
Riley Zegras is an American medical student, academic researcher, and public figure. She is known for her medical and academic path in New York City and for her relationship with Jack Hughes.
She is the twin sister of Trevor Zegras and is part of one of the most well-known social circles among young professional athletes in the National Hockey League.
Early life
Riley was born in the United States alongside her twin brother, Trevor Zegras.
She grew up in a family deeply connected to competitive sports, supporting Trevor’s development in youth hockey and later in professional hockey from a young age. Despite being surrounded by high-performance athletes, Riley developed interests focused on science and medicine.
During her school years, she stood out for her academic performance, especially in areas related to biology, chemistry, and health sciences.
Education
New York University
Riley was admitted to New York University, where she completed pre-med studies before continuing her professional training.
She later enrolled at NYU School of Medicine, focusing on a career connected to clinical medicine and research.
Medicine
During her years of medical training, she balanced demanding academic responsibilities with a personal life constantly exposed to the world of professional sports due to her brother’s and her partner’s careers.
Her classmates and family members often describe her as extremely disciplined, private, and work-oriented.
Career
Medical training
Riley developed much of her clinical experience within university hospitals affiliated with NYU, participating in rotations, medical research, and academic activities.
Although she maintained a considerably more private profile than many people in her circle, she was recognized for successfully balancing a highly demanding medical career with a public life connected to professional hockey.
Research
In addition to her clinical training, she participated in projects related to health, biomedical sciences, and applied medicine.
Relationship with Jack Hughes
Beginning of the relationship
Riley met Jack Hughes through the close friendship between Jack and Trevor Zegras.
Over the years, the two developed a romantic relationship that eventually became one of the most well-known within the circle of young NHL players.
Public life
Unlike other partners connected to professional sports, Riley kept much of her private life focused on her studies and medical training.
However, she was frequently seen alongside members of the Hughes family and other New Jersey Devils players’ partners during sporting events, family gatherings, and important celebrations.
Personal life
Riley maintains an especially close relationship with her brother Trevor, with whom she has shared a strong bond since childhood.
She also developed a close friendship with several members of the Hughes family, especially Thea Hughes, Josephine Hughes, and Sophia Crosby.
Much of her adult life has been divided between New York, New Jersey, and different trips connected to both her academic career and the NHL schedule.
Public image
Riley is often described as one of the most private figures within the close circle of the Hughes and Zegras families.
Her academic path in medicine has been highlighted as a contrast to the sports environment surrounding her, making her an admired figure for maintaining a professional identity completely independent from hockey.
Family
Parents
• Gary Zegras
• Julie Zegras
Siblings
• Trevor Zegras
Partner
• Jack Hughes
Fun facts
• She is Trevor Zegras’ twin sister.
• She studied medicine at New York University.
• She met Jack Hughes because of the friendship between Jack and Trevor.
• She is considered one of the most academically accomplished people within the close circle of young NHL players.
• She maintains a close friendship with Josephine Hughes due to their shared interests in health sciences.
• She usually spends part of her summers with the Hughes family in Michigan.
• She is known for maintaining a considerably lower media profile than most partners of professional athletes.
MIA DONOVAN-DIETZE
Date of birth:September 8th , 2003 birthplace:Leverkusen, Germany instagram:miadonovandietze profession: Football//Soccer Player (Bussiness at UMICH)
General information
Mia Donovan is an American-German professional soccer player, business student, and public figure connected to both soccer and North American professional hockey. She is known for being the daughter of Landon Donovan and the german actress Julia Dietze , for her standout college career at Michigan, and for later joining NJ/NY Gotham FC.
Over the years, she became one of the most promising young athletes of her generation, standing out for combining an academic career in business with the development of a professional path in women’s soccer. Her story is often connected to her family’s athletic legacy and to her presence within circles close to the NHL.
Early life
Mia was born in Germany during a period when her father, Landon Donovan, maintained ties to German soccer after his experiences in Europe. Donovan played and was partly developed in Germany through Bayer Leverkusen’s system during the early years of his professional career.
From a young age, she was surrounded by high-level soccer, developing a strong interest in the sport thanks to her father’s influence.
Unlike many children of professional athletes, Mia was constantly encouraged to build her own identity outside the shadow of Landon’s career, something that deeply influenced her personal and competitive development.
Education
University of Michigan
Mia studied Business at the University of Michigan.
During her college years, she managed to balance academic demands with her career as a high-performance soccer player, becoming one of the most outstanding players in the university’s athletic program.
Her academic background focused on:
• Business administration
• Sports marketing
• Organizational management
• Business leadership
• International business
Athletic career
College soccer
During her first years at Michigan, Mia established herself as one of the most important figures on the university team.
She stood out for her tactical intelligence, leadership on the field, and ability to influence the offensive side of the game.
Her performance quickly attracted the attention of professional teams in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Gotham FC
In her third year of college, she was selected by NJ/NY Gotham FC.
Her arrival in professional soccer generated significant media attention due to the combination of her athletic talent and her family’s soccer legacy.
With Gotham, she began the transition from college prospect to professional soccer player, being considered one of the most interesting young additions of her generation.
Relationship with Dawson Mercer
Beginning of the relationship
Mia met Dawson Mercer through shared circles between professional athletes and friends connected to the New Jersey Devils.
For a long period, they kept their relationship away from public attention.
Public confirmation
Although neither of them initially confirmed the relationship officially, several public appearances fueled rumors among fans.
One of the most talked-about moments happened during the Devils’ playoffs, when Mia appeared wearing a customized jacket with the number 91 and the name Mercer alongside other players’ partners.
Months later, she publicly shared photos from different moments in her relationship with Dawson, indirectly confirming the bond.
Personal life
Mia maintains a considerably private personality despite having grown up in a well-known media family.
Over the years, she developed close friendships with several figures connected to professional hockey, including Josephine Hughes, Thea Bratt, Riley Zegras, and Sophia Crosby.
Much of her life takes place between New York, New Jersey, and different cities connected to the professional soccer calendar.
Public image
Mia is often described as someone who represents a new generation of female athletes: elite competitors with a university education, controlled media presence, and independent careers outside the influence of their families.
Her combination of professional soccer, business education, and moderate public life made her especially popular among young fans.
Family
Parents
• Landon Donovan
• Julia Dietze
Partner
• Dawson Mercer
Fun facts
• She was born in Germany.
• She is the daughter of Landon Donovan, considered one of the most important soccer players in United States history. (Wikipedia)
• She studied Business at the University of Michigan.
• She was selected by NJ/NY Gotham FC during her third year of college.
• She kept her relationship with Dawson Mercer away from public attention for a long time.
• She shares close friendships with several partners and relatives of Devils players.
• She is known for combining an elegant and professional image with a considerably private personality.
• She has been described by sports media as one of the young soccer players with the greatest potential of her generation.
KENNEDY LEONARD
Date of birth: January 21st, 2005 birthplace:Amherst, Massachusetts instagram:kenn.leo profession: Economics (At Boston College)
General information
Kennedy Kay Leonard is an economics student, college personality, and public figure connected to American college hockey. She is known primarily for being the twin sister of Ryan Leonard and for her academic life at Boston College.
Over the years, she became a recognized figure within the social circle surrounding Boston college hockey, especially because of her connections to NCAA players and future NHL stars.
Early life
Kennedy was born in the United States alongside her twin brother, Ryan Leonard.
From a young age, she grew up in an environment deeply connected to competitive sports, supporting Ryan’s development within American youth hockey.
Despite sharing much of her childhood with the hockey world, Kennedy developed interests outside of sports, leaning toward areas related to economics, business, and financial analysis.
Education
Boston College
Kennedy enrolled at Boston College, where she began studying Economics.
During her college years, she stood out for maintaining a strong academic focus while actively participating in university life.
Her areas of interest include:
• Economics
• Finance
• International markets
• Business management
• Economic analysis
Her time at Boston College also strengthened her connections to the college sports world due to the historical importance of hockey within the institution.
Public life
College environment
Kennedy is known within the college circle for maintaining close friendships with different figures connected to Boston hockey, including players, student-athletes, and people involved in high-level sports programs.
She has frequently been associated with the social environment surrounding college players who later make the transition to the NHL.
Social presence
Unlike many figures associated with professional sports, Kennedy has maintained a considerably more private public presence, focusing mainly on her academic and college life.
Relationship with hockey
Although she did not pursue a professional athletic career, much of her public life has been connected to hockey because of her twin brother’s career.
Her closeness with different college and professional players made her a known figure within Boston’s sports communities.
Personal life
Kennedy maintains an especially close relationship with Ryan Leonard, with friends and family often describing them as extremely close siblings.
During her college years, she was part of one of the social circles most connected to NCAA hockey, sharing friendships with players from different universities and youth organizations.
Public image
Kennedy is often perceived as elegant, private, and academically focused.
Within the college environment, she is frequently highlighted for balancing a social life connected to high-performance sports with a career centered on economics and business.
Family
Parents
• John Leonard
• Cindy Leonard
Siblings
• Ryan Leonard
• John Leonard
Fun facts
• Her middle name is Kay but everyone writes it Kai
• She is Ryan Leonard’s twin sister.
• She studies Economics at Boston College.
• She grew up supporting much of Ryan’s athletic career.
• She maintains a considerably more private public life than many athletes in her circle.
• She is known for being part of the college circle connected to Boston hockey.
• Her friendships include student-athletes and future professional hockey players.
• She is often described as one of the most academically focused people within her close group.
SOPHIA CROSBY
Date of birth:July 1st, 2006 birthplace: Pittsburgh, Pensilvania instagram:scrosby profession: Golf Player (Bioengineering at Stanford)
General information
Sophia Sidney Crosby is a Canadian born American college golfer, bioengineering student, and public figure. She is known for being the daughter of Sidney Crosby, as well as for developing an independent athletic career in competitive golf.
Sophia competes representing Stanford University while studying Bioengineering, a discipline focused on the application of engineering principles to biological and medical systems.
Early life
Sophia was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and was primarily raised by her father, Sidney Crosby.
Although she grew up surrounded by the world of professional hockey due to Sidney’s career with the Pittsburgh Penguins, she developed a strong connection to golf from a young age.
Much of her childhood was spent between Pittsburgh and Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, where she began playing during NHL breaks.
Athletic career
Beginnings in golf
Sophia began playing golf around the age of seven as a recreational activity during summers and offseason periods.
Over time, she showed a natural talent for the sport, quickly developing competitive skills that led her to participate in junior tournaments.
Her father was one of the most important figures in her athletic development, frequently accompanying her during training sessions and competitions.
Junior career
During her teenage years, she established herself as one of the most promising junior golfers of her generation.
Her competitive growth was accompanied by strong academic discipline, a quality that later influenced her university recruitment process.
Stanford Golf
Sophia was recruited by Stanford University, one of the most prestigious institutions both academically and athletically.
Stanford has a long tradition in American college golf and has developed multiple elite golfers.
Within the university program, Sophia continued developing her athletic career while competing at the highest level of the NCAA.
Education
Stanford University
Sophia studies Bioengineering at Stanford University.
The program combines areas such as:
• Biomedical engineering
• Biology
• Physics
• Mathematics
• Medical technology
• Health-related applied research
The program is known for preparing students for scientific research, medicine, biotechnology, and technological development.
Her academic choice has often been highlighted due to the difficulty of combining advanced scientific studies with high-performance college athletics.
Relationship with Luke Hughes
Beginning of the relationship
Sophia met Luke Hughes during different events connected to professional hockey.
Over time, the two developed a romantic relationship that became one of the most well-known within the circle of young families connected to the NHL.
Relationship with the Hughes family
Sophia developed an especially close relationship with the Hughes family, particularly with Ellen Hughes, Thea Bratt, Josephine Hughes, and Leah Hughes.
Over time, she became a regular presence at family gatherings, vacations in Michigan, and important celebrations connected to the family.
Personal life
Despite being the daughter of one of the most recognized figures in world hockey, Sophia has maintained a public identity focused mainly on academics and athletics.
She is known for having a private, competitive personality and for being highly focused on her academic goals.
She also maintains close friendships with Riley Zegras, Mia Donovan, and other members of the social circle connected to the Hughes and Crosby families.
Public image
Sophia is often considered one of the most notable young figures within college sports due to her combination of academic excellence and athletic performance.
Her path has frequently been compared to that of other children of professional athletes who chose to build careers completely independent from their parents’ sport.
Family
Father
• Sidney Crosby
Mother
• Information not publicly disclosed
Partner
• Luke Hughes
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Fun facts
• She began playing golf at the age of seven.
• She grew up between Pittsburgh and Cole Harbour.
• She studies Bioengineering at Stanford. (Bioengineering)
• She was recruited as a college golfer by Stanford.
• She maintains an especially close relationship with her paternal grandparents.
• She met Luke Hughes during her teenage years.
• She is one of the few people in her close circle whose athletic career is completely separate from hockey.
• Her father often accompanied her to junior tournaments and even acted as her caddie in some important competitions.
• She is considered one of the most academically demanding student-athletes within her university environment.
LEAH HUGHES
Date of birth:July 04rd, 2006 birthplace: Toronto, Canada instagram lhughes22 profession: Hockey Player (Sport Management at UMICH)
General information
Leah Hughes is a professional ice hockey player, sport management student, and one of the most outstanding athletes of her generation. She is known for being part of the Hughes family, for her career in high-level women’s hockey, and for representing the United States in international competitions.
Leah gained international recognition after winning the Olympic gold medal with the United States women’s national team, being named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the final in the victory against Canada.
Early life
Leah was born in Canada as the youngest daughter of Jim and Ellen Hughes and the only one in the neighboring country
She grew up in a family deeply connected to ice hockey alongside her siblings Thea, Josephine, Quinn Hughes, Jack Hughes, and Luke Hughes.
From a young age, she showed strong competitive talent, quickly standing out in girls’ youth hockey.
Unlike her older brothers, Leah developed much of her career in women’s college hockey and national team programs.
Education
Boston University
Leah began her college career at Boston University.
During her season in Boston, she was considered one of the young players with the greatest potential in American college hockey.
Transfer to Michigan
After one year in Boston, she decided to transfer to the University of Michigan.
The decision was influenced by both athletic and personal reasons, allowing her to return to an environment closer to her family.
Sport Management
At Michigan, she began studying Sport Management, focusing on areas related to:
• Sports administration
• Management of professional organizations
• Sports marketing
• Leadership and team management
• Athlete development
Her academic path was closely connected to her experience as a high-performance athlete.
Athletic career
College hockey
Leah quickly established herself as one of the most important figures in women’s college hockey.
She was recognized for:
• Her vision of the game
• Offensive ability
• Leadership on the ice
• Tactical intelligence
• Performance in important games
Her athletic impact made her one of the leading young figures in American hockey.
United States national team
Leah represented the United States in various international competitions before reaching the Olympic level.
Her growth within the national program turned her into a key piece for the American team.
Olympic Games
The most important moment of her career came during the Winter Olympic Games, where the United States faced Canada in the gold medal final.
Leah delivered a historic performance during the game, leading the team offensively and being named MVP of the final after the American victory.
The game is considered one of the most important moments of her athletic career and cemented her status as one of the most important players of her generation.
Relationship with Macklin Celebrini
Beginning of the relationship
Leah met Macklin Celebrini during their years in youth and college hockey.
Over time, they developed a romantic relationship that became one of the most well-known among the young figures of North American hockey.
Public life
Despite the media attention surrounding both the Hughes family and Macklin, the two have maintained a relatively private relationship, focusing mainly on their respective athletic careers
Personal life
Leah maintains an especially close relationship with her sisters Thea and Josephine, who often support her during important decisions related to her career.
She is also known for being one of the most competitive members of the Hughes family, a trait frequently mentioned by her siblings.
Much of her time is divided between Michigan, activities connected to the United States national team, and university and professional commitments.
Public image
Leah is considered one of the most important figures in American women’s hockey of her generation.
Her combination of international success, college excellence, and belonging to one of hockey’s most recognized families has contributed to a significant media presence.
Unlike many young athletes, she has also been highlighted for maintaining a strong academic focus while developing an elite athletic career.
Hughes family
Parents
• Jim Hughes
• Ellen Hughes
Siblings
• Thea Hughes
• Josephine Hughes
• Quinn Hughes
• Jack Hughes
• Luke Hughes
Partner
• Macklin Celebrini
Notable achievements
• Olympic gold medal with the United States
• MVP of the Olympic final against Canada
• International representative of the United States women’s national team
• Standout player in American college hockey
• Sport Management student at the University of Michigan
Fun facts
• She is the youngest sibling in the Hughes family.
• She studied for one year at Boston University before transferring to Michigan.
• She is considered one of the most competitive members of her family.
• She won Olympic gold against Canada in the final.
• She was named MVP of the gold medal game.
• She maintains a close relationship with her brothers’ partners, especially Sophia Crosby and Riley Zegras.
• She prefers decisions related to her athletic career to be made mainly by herself and her professional team, avoiding direct influence from her brothers.
• She is considered one of the future central figures of American women’s hockey.
*SERIES ON HOLD DUE TO WRITTER´S BLOCK: Freja Nylander OC!*
