Alex Carpenter Brings Massachusetts Experience to Olympic Ice
On January 7, 2026, the Seattle Torrent’s Alex Carpenter made her debut at Boston University’s Agganis Arena. This marked a significant return to a familiar area for Carpenter, who previously played hockey in the region while at Boston College from 2011 to 2016. Her connection to the BU campus is deepened by her brother, Bobo, who played for the Terriers from 2015 to 2019. Carpenter fondly recalls watching his games, saying, “It’s neat to be in a place where my brother played.”
Alex Carpenter: Olympic Journey from Massachusetts
Just days before the game at Agganis Arena, Carpenter was honored with a selection to the 2026 U.S. Olympic Women’s Ice Hockey Team, which will compete in Milano Cortina, Italy. She joins three teammates from the Seattle Torrent—Hilary Knight, Hannah Bilka, and Cayla Barnes—as well as 15 other players from the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). Uniquely, Carpenter is the only player from Massachusetts on the roster.
Background and Early Career
Born in Massachusetts, Carpenter’s hockey journey took her family from New York and New Jersey, where her father played and coached for the New Jersey Devils. The family returned to North Reading, Massachusetts, when Carpenter was 13. “My dad wanted us to grow up in Massachusetts, where all of our family is,” she stated.
Carpenter’s youth hockey foundation was built with teams like the East Coast Wizards and the Valley Junior Warriors. “Those were formative years of my hockey career,” she reflected. At Governor’s Academy, she excelled, posting 239 goals and 427 points in just 100 games before committing to Boston College.
Achievements and Olympic Experience
While at Boston College, Carpenter had a standout career that culminated in winning the prestigious Patty Kazmaier Award in 2015. She expressed her affection for playing at Conte Forum, noting the lasting memories she created there. Now, she is preparing for her third Olympic experience. In previous Olympics, she earned silver medals in both 2014 and 2022.
PWHL’s Impact on Olympic Preparation
This Olympic Games is particularly noteworthy for Carpenter as it marks the first participation of PWHL players. She acknowledges the advantages of consistent play, stating, “Having this league right now, and everybody will be at their absolute best.” Carpenter will benefit from competing with familiar teammates, which she views as essential for Team USA’s quest for gold, the first since 2018.
Rivalry and Team Dynamics
As the team prepares for competition, the familiarity among players will foster unity. Carpenter highlighted the importance of their prior engagements during the Rivalry Series against Canada, emphasizing how it strengthens team chemistry. “We’re lucky to play together in the Rivalry Series,” she said.
Upcoming Olympic Matches
Team USA begins its Olympic campaign on February 5, facing the Czech Republic in the preliminary round. Other teams in Group A include Finland, Switzerland, and Canada. Notably, the highly anticipated matchup against Canada is scheduled for February 10. Carpenter remains optimistic about the team’s blend of veterans and emerging talent, believing they can achieve success one day at a time.
