Burt shows some Pride
Ex-BC goalie inks NWHL deal
Katie Burt won’t have to go too far to begin her professional career.
The former Boston College goalie, who was selected first overall in the National Women’s Hockey League draft in 2017, signed with the Boston Pride last night, just a couple of months removed from backstopping BC to another NCAA tourney appearance.
“I’m just really excited and fortunate to continue the opportunity,” she said. “I know a lot of girls from the past who built women’s hockey as a whole and didn’t have these opportunities. I’m really excited that I have that opportunity to take my game to the next level.”
The Lynn native led the Eagles to three Frozen Fours in her tenure as their starting goalie. With a 121-13-10 record, she is the winningest goaltender in NCAA history. She was instrumental in the Eagles’ undefeated regular-season run in 2016-17.
“Last week I got the contract and talked it over with family and people I trusted,” she said. “I figured out the best decision for me to achieve my goals, and I think I can do that with the Boston Pride and by continuing to play here in Boston.”
After winning the inaugural Isobel Cup — the NWHL’s championship — the Pride fell to the Buffalo Beauts in 2017. They lost to Buffalo again on the road in the semifinal in 2018, taking the defending champions to overtime.
Burt was one of two Eagles selected by the Pride in 2017, along with Kenzie Kent.
“I was really surprised that I went first to be honest,” said Burt. “Our draft class is really talented. To be the first draft pick was unexpected, but I was excited. I knew I had another year in college, but it’s coming to fruition with pro hockey. I can’t wait.”
At BC, Burt led the Eagles to four Hockey East regular-season titles, two conference championships and three Beanpots.
After winning gold with Team USA at the 2015 U-18 World Championship and joining the BC squad at 17 years old, her next goal is making a run at the women’s national team.
Brittany Ott has backstopped the Pride in each of their first three seasons. Brianna Laing, a Marblehead native and Harvard graduate, started two games last season, while Vermont’s Madison Litchfield also saw action as the squad’s third goalie.
“Katie is a great goaltender with exceptional talent and a strong work ethic, so we’re very proud and excited that she has decided to join the Pride,” said Pride first-year head coach Paul Mara. “Our staff will work closely with her to enhance her development as a player. I’m confident that Katie will play an instrumental role on our team this season, and for many to come.”
The Price begin their fourth season in October.