A towering presence on the ice and a record-setting forward for the University of British Columbia, Grace Elliott has quickly become one of the brightest stars in Canadian women’s hockey. After a season that saw her dominate scoring charts, win national awards, and break program records, her trajectory has people talking about her potential future in the Professional Women’s Hockey League. The buzz now surrounds whether Elliott could become the first U Sports player to make the leap directly into the PWHL.
Key Highlights
Grace Elliott led U Sports women’s hockey in goals and points this season.
She won the 2025 Brodrick Trophy as U Sports Player of the Year.
Elliott set two new records at the University of British Columbia.
Her size and scoring ability make her a unique 2026 PWHL draft prospect.
Head coach Graham Thomas believes she has unmatched star potential.
A Season of Dominance
Elliott’s 2024-25 campaign with the UBC Thunderbirds was nothing short of historic. The 6’2″ forward scored 22 goals and added 20 assists for 42 points in just 28 games, leading the nation in both categories. In doing so, she set two new program records for single-season goals and points, cementing her status as the best player in Canadian university hockey this year. Her efforts were recognized with the prestigious 2025 Brodrick Trophy, awarded to U Sports Player of the Year, along with being named a First Team All-Canadian and the 2024-25 Canada West Player of the Year.
Her success is tied not only to her skill but also to years of hard work. A North Delta Secondary graduate, Elliott grew up around the game, with her father reportedly running a small rink in Surrey when she was young. That early exposure, combined with her physical stature, helped her develop into a player who stands out in every sense.
The Power of Size and Skill
Elliott’s game is a rare blend of physical dominance and hockey intelligence. Standing at 6’2″, she brings an imposing presence to the forward position, something her head coach Graham Thomas believes gives her a clear edge.
“She’s always been a great player, but she had a breakout season last year and she put a lot of work in … things are starting to click for her on the ice and off the ice.” – Graham Thomas
Thomas emphasized how Elliott has steadily improved every year with the Thunderbirds.
“She keeps getting better and better. She’s put a lot of work in and she’s trained really hard … she’s had successful years every year.” – Graham Thomas
Her combination of size, skill, and vision on the ice sets her apart from her peers.
“She can do it all. She’s got the size, she’s co-ordinated … she’s got great vision and she passes well.” – Graham Thomas
Star Potential in the PWHL
The possibility of Elliott becoming the first U Sports athlete to transition directly into the PWHL is fueling excitement across the hockey community. Her record-breaking season has positioned her as a potential top prospect for the 2026 draft, and her coach has no doubts about her readiness.
“I believe in it 100 per cent. I’m just really excited for her, I’m really proud of her, and what she accomplished this year in the league, and in leading the country in scoring, and winning U Sports Player of the Year, and for our program as well … just incredible.” – Graham Thomas
For Thomas, Elliott represents a unique case of size meeting skill at the university level.
“From what I’ve seen, there’s not really too many players in Canada like (Elliott) out there (with) her size and her ability.” – Graham Thomas
Her development has been remarkable, and Thomas expects her to only keep growing before the draft.
“She’s a well-rounded player and it’s all coming together … all the work she’s done is coming together for her. I truly believe she’s not done yet.” – Graham Thomas
With one or two more seasons at UBC ahead, Elliott’s journey continues to be closely watched, as her mix of dominance and potential could reshape the pathway for U Sports players to the professional ranks.
News in Brief: Grace Elliott Standout Season U Sports Hockey
Grace Elliott of White Rock emerged as the top player in Canadian university women’s hockey this season, leading the nation with 22 goals and 42 points while setting two new records for UBC. The 6’2″ forward won the 2025 Brodrick Trophy and Canada West Player of the Year honors, drawing attention as a prime 2026 PWHL draft prospect. Head coach Graham Thomas praised her size, skill, and dedication, calling her one-of-a-kind.
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