PWHL Detroit Secures Defenseman Sydney Bard Ahead of Season Launch

PWHL Detroit has announced the signing of defenseman Sydney Bard to a two-year contract as the team prepares for its inaugural season in 2026-27. This signing marks Bard as the sixth player to join the team and the first addition made during Phase 3 of the PWHL Expansion Player Distribution Process.

Bard, who contributed two assists in 30 games with the Vancouver Goldeneyes this past season, was originally drafted 22nd overall by the Boston Fleet during the fourth round of the 2024 PWHL Draft. She made her mark by scoring her first goal in just her third game on December 8, 2024, and finished the season with one goal and two assists in 27 appearances.

The 25-year-old from New Hartford, New York, had a successful collegiate career at Colgate University, where she played for five seasons. During her time there, Bard led her team to four ECAC titles and served as captain in her senior year. She surpassed the 100-point milestone, concluding her time as a Raider with 13 goals and 99 assists. Bard also showcased her talent on the international stage, earning a silver medal with Team USA at the 2019 IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship.

Joining the ranks of PWHL Detroit's defense, Bard follows the addition of Cayla Barnes, who came aboard during Phase 2 of the expansion process. She will also reconnect with Hannah Bilka, another Phase 2 signing, after they both played their rookie season together with Boston in 2024-25. The team has also secured forwards Daryl Watts, Britta Curl-Salemme, and Jesse Compher during the same phase.