Across the storied history of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, countless student-athletes have left their mark on the ice and have continued to excel in their post-collegiate careers. In this special Alumni Spotlight series, the WCHA will highlight former players around the league who have made an impact and gone above and beyond in their respective professional careers.
In the 13th installment of this series, the WCHA is spotlighting former St. Thomas forward Anna Erickson, who graduated in 2022 from the University of St. Thomas and most recently graduated from Northeastern University Law School. During her time with the Tommies, Erickson played in 86 games while registering 22 points off of eight goals and 14 assists. In her senior season, Erickson was named a Krampade/ACHA All-American Scholar, a WCHA Scholar-Athlete award winner, and a member of the WCHA All-Academic Team.
Read below on how playing at St. Thomas and in the WCHA had played a role in Erickson's journey to becoming a lawyer.
How did playing college and/or professional hockey prepare you for your current career?
Playing college hockey prepared me to succeed in law school and in my future career as a lawyer by showing me how discipline, hard work, and being a good teammate and leader will enable you to achieve your goals and earn new opportunities.
What was your favorite memory from playing in the WCHA?
Playing the final game of my career in the playoffs at the University of Minnesota with lots of family and friends in attendance.
What advice would you give to current WCHA players?
Be grateful for every practice and game day! There is nothing better than getting to play the sport you love with your best friends.
What advice would you give to your college self?
Be confident in yourself and stop stressing about the little things.
What was the most rewarding part about playing in the WCHA?
It was an honor to play in St. Thomas’ first season at the Division I level in the WCHA against some of the best teams and players in the country. We established a strong foundation and positive culture in the program, and it has been exciting to see the team reach new milestones each season.
What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were playing?
Quiet confidence and leading by example are just as admirable as speaking up and speaking out at every opportunity.
WCHA Alumni Spotlight Features
Makayla Langei, Bemidji State
Sofia Even (Poinar), Minnesota State
Sis Paulsen, Wisconsin
Abby Haluska, Bemidji State
Julianna Iafallo, Ohio State
Margot Miller, North Dakota
Emma Yanko, Minnesota Duluth
Gabby Billing, St. Thomas
Baylee Stevenson (Gillanders), Minnesota
Sadie Lundquist, Bemidji State
Sheri Hudspeth (Maisonneuve), Minnesota State
Rachel Herzog, St. Cloud State
For more information on the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, follow the league on X and Instagram @WCHA_WHockey, and online at wcha.com.