Troy Ryan Builds PWHL San Jose From The Blue Line Out

Troy Ryan's blueprint for PWHL San Jose begins on defense.

In comments on the expansion club's early roster construction, Ryan framed the blue line as the group he trusts most because he knows the people in it. "Every one of them is someone that I've crossed paths with, one way or another," he said.

One of those crossings came from opposite benches. Ryan singled out defender Rory Guilday, an American, noting his own time with Canada's program. "It's funny, with me being with Canada and her being with the US, I've always enjoyed my little connections, whether crossing paths at an arena or crossing paths at a hotel," he said. "Always had a really good feeling for who she was as a person, and obviously respect her as a hockey player."

Guilday is one of the five players San Jose added during Phase 2 of the PWHL's Expansion Player Distribution Process, which closed in June. She signed a two-year deal, as did goaltender Corinne Schroeder and forwards Anne Cherkowski and Kristin O'Neill. Forward Maddi Wheeler, whose rights had been held by the New York Sirens, completed the group on June 8 with a two-year contract through 2027-28.

San Jose is one of four PWHL expansion clubs preparing for an inaugural 2026-27 season, alongside Detroit, Las Vegas and Hamilton.

"Good people, good players," Ryan said, "and excited to be in San Jose."