Abby Roque Bio
Abby Roque (born September 25, 1997) is an American ice hockey player who is a forward for the Montreal Victoire of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). She is the first indigenous person to play for the United States women’s national ice hockey team, making her Olympic debut in 2022. Roque has made significant contributions to women’s hockey both at the collegiate and professional levels, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport.
Early Life and Background
Abby Roque was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, where she began her journey in hockey at the age of six. Growing up, she faced challenges due to the lack of options for girls’ hockey, which led her to play on boys’ teams. During her time at Sault Area High School, she made a notable impact as the only freshman to join the varsity hockey team, eventually becoming an alternate captain in her senior year. Roque’s high school performance was impressive, as she recorded 16 goals and 20 assists, totaling 36 points in her final year.
Path to Hockey
After high school, Abby Roque attended the University of Wisconsin, where she excelled in collegiate hockey. Over her career with the Wisconsin Badgers, she accumulated 170 points in 155 NCAA games. Her outstanding performance earned her multiple accolades, including WCHA Rookie of the Year in 2016-17 and WCHA Offensive Player of the Year on two occasions. In 2019, she played a crucial role in securing the NCAA championship for her team by scoring the game-winning goal in the semi-finals.
Abby Roque Career
Early Career (2020–2021)
Following her graduation, Abby Roque joined the Professional Women’s Hockey Players Association (PWHPA) and was named to the Team Minnesota roster for the 2020-21 season. She participated in the PWHPA Dream Gap Tour, notably playing at Madison Square Garden, marking a significant moment in women’s hockey history. During this event, she contributed with a goal and two assists despite her team’s narrow loss.
Breakthrough (2022–Present)
Abby Roque’s breakthrough came when she was named to the United States women’s national ice hockey team for the 2022 Winter Olympics. This achievement not only highlighted her skills but also her role as a trailblazer for indigenous athletes in the sport. In September 2023, Roque signed a three-year contract with the Montreal Victoire, marking a new chapter in her professional career. On March 22, 2025, she scored the first Michigan goal in PWHL history, further solidifying her legacy in women’s hockey. During the 2024-25 season, she recorded six goals and 11 assists in 30 games for the New York Sirens before being traded to the Montreal Victoire.
Notable Works and Milestones
Abby Roque’s signature work includes her performance in the NCAA championships and her historic Olympic debut. She has received recognition as a top player in collegiate hockey and has been a key figure in the development of women’s professional hockey.
Abby Roque Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Abby Roque has received several nominations for her outstanding performances, particularly during her time at the University of Wisconsin and in her early professional career.
Abby Roque Awards Won
Abby Roque has achieved significant recognition, including being named WCHA Offensive Player of the Year and USCHO Division I Women’s Player of the Year in 2020. These awards reflect her impact and excellence in women’s hockey.
Abby Roque Family
Abby Roque is the daughter of Jim Roque, a former NCAA ice hockey coach who currently works as a pro scout for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League. Her family background has played a role in her development as an athlete.
Personal Life
Abby Roque is a member of the Wahnapitae First Nation and holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Her heritage and education contribute to her identity both on and off the ice.
