MADISON, Wis. – For the third time in her historic career, Wisconsin women's hockey senior
Annie Pankowski has been named a top-10 finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award, USA Hockey announced on Thursday
Pankowski, who was up for the award in 2016 and 2017, is only the second Badger to be a three-time finalist, joining Hilary Knight, who was also finalist in 2009, 2011 and 2012.
"I am so honored to be named to this prestigious list," Pankowski said. "I am so thankful for my teammates, coaches, family and mentors who have pushed and supported me throughout my career. I could never have accomplished this without them."
This year Pankowski, a two-time All-American, leads the Badgers in points with 37 thanks to 17 goals and 20 assists. She enjoyed a seven-game goal streak, the third longest streak in program history and made ESPN SportsCenter Top-10 Plays three times for goals during the run.
Pankowski ranks in the top-10 in school history in points (193), goals (85), assists (108), shots on goal (678) and plus/minus (+141). The senior co-captain is seven points away from becoming only the sixth Badger to record 200 points.
In addition, Pankowski is now tied for the school record with eight short-handed goals after her tally against Syracuse on Dec. 2
This marks the second time Pankowski has been named a finalist for a prestigious award this year as the Laguna Hills, California, native was named a finalist for the 2019 Hockey Humanitarian Award earlier this month. Pankowski has volunteered more than 2000 hours with Occupaws, an organization that helps train guide dogs in Wisconsin and the surrounding area.
Pankowski has also been stellar in the classroom as she is a three-time WCHA Scholar-Athlete and was the 2016 NCAA Elite 90 Award recipient. She will graduate from UW in May with a degree in zoology and plans to attend veterinarian school.
The No. 1 Badgers wrap up the regular season this weekend against No. 10 Ohio State. Puck drop on Friday is at 7 p.m. while Saturday's game begins at 3 p.m. Both games are sold out, but can be heard in the Madison area on 100.9 FM.
