On March 30, 2021, Caroline Harvey’s dream was about to become reality when she received word that she was selected to the U.S. Women’s National Team that would be competing at the 2021 IIHF Women’s World Championship.
The 18-year-old native of Pelham, N.H., had spent majority of her lifetime striving to be one of the best players out there every time she touches the ice. This goal was made possible due to the outstanding years she spent developing with programs such as the Selects Hockey Academy and North American Hockey Academy.
“These teams have taught me to work hard always and never stop striving to reach your dreams and goals,” Harvey explained. “Every practice you have, every game, every work out you’re given are always an opportunity to get better.”
That dream was temporarily put on hold when the local government in Nova Scotia pulled the plug on the tournament hours before the team was set to head north of the border to begin an eight-day quarantine. 
Unphased by the temporary setback, Harvey still remembers what it was like to skate with some of the top players in the country at the U.S. Women’s National Team evaluation camp, where over the course of six days, she found herself immersed within the USA Hockey family.
“I love all the girls,” said Harvey, who was twice a member of the U.S. Women's Under-18 Nattional Team in 2019 and 2020. “Everyone was so nice and welcoming and I felt at home when I was there because everyone just had open arms coming in. I never felt nervous talking to anyone because everyone was so approachable.”
In addition to her welcoming teammates, Harvey finds comfort and excitement in knowing that she will be under the incredible leadership of coaches Joel Johnson and Brien Pothier.
“I’m excited to get started and work with all the girls,” Harvey said. “I can’t wait to get to know everyone better, especially the coaching staff because they are very talented and know exactly what they are doing. I just can’t wait to train with everyone there.”
The 2021-22 season also holds a new adventure for Harvey’s career as she prepares to begin her first collegiate year with the University of Wisconsin, who is currently coming off outstanding season that concluded with being named the 2021 national champions.
“I’m looking forward to the coaching and the atmosphere there. It’s a very strong program and I’m excited to get started because everyone there will push each other. It’s just a great opportunity always to play for a university team,” Harvey stated.
With opportunities to play in front of crowds both on colligate and international stages, Harvey looks ahead with great confidence thanks to the years of training behind her and all those who stood alongside her.
Yet, Harvey knows these moments ahead will only help grow her game, both mentally and physically, as her hockey career only continues to flourish.
“Just playing at a higher level will teach me how to, in certain situations, be mentally stronger,” Harvey explained. “It’s going to be a lot tougher also just adjusting my game to those situations.”