Cal Petersen Bio
Calvin Louis Petersen is an American professional ice hockey goaltender for the Iowa Wild of the American Hockey League (AHL) while under contract to the Minnesota Wild of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected in the fifth round, 129th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. On July 1, 2017, he signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Los Angeles Kings as an unrestricted free agent. Prior to turning professional, Petersen played college ice hockey for the University of Notre Dame, where he set an NCAA Division I record of 87 saves during the longest collegiate ice hockey game ever.
Early Life and Background
Cal Petersen was born on October 19, 1994, in Waterloo, Iowa, United States. He attended Waterloo West High School, where he began his journey in ice hockey. Petersen’s early exposure to the sport came through playing junior ice hockey with the Topeka RoadRunners of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) and the Waterloo Black Hawks of the United States Hockey League (USHL). His commitment to hockey led him to pursue further education at the University of Notre Dame, where he played college ice hockey for three seasons.
Path to Hockey
During his time at the University of Notre Dame, Petersen made significant strides in his hockey career. In his freshman season, he played in 33 games, posting a 13–16–3 record, and helped lead Notre Dame to the Hockey East playoffs. Notably, he set a Division I record with 87 saves in a single game during the longest collegiate hockey game against the UMass Minutemen. His performance earned him a spot on the Hockey East All-Rookie Team and the Hockey East All-Academic Team. In his sophomore year, Petersen started all 37 games, achieving a 19–11–7 record and was recognized as an Honorable Mention Hockey East All-Star. By his junior year, he was named team captain and led the team to the 2017 Frozen Four.
Cal Petersen Career
Early Career (2017–2019)
Petersen began his professional career in 2017 after signing with the Los Angeles Kings. He started the 2018–19 season with the Ontario Reign, the Kings’ AHL affiliate. He made his NHL debut on November 13, 2018, against the Toronto Maple Leafs, coming in as a relief goaltender. Petersen earned his first NHL win shortly after, on November 16, 2018, against the Chicago Blackhawks, and recorded his first career shutout on November 19, 2018, against the St. Louis Blues.
Breakthrough (2019–2023)
Petersen’s breakthrough in the NHL came during the 2019–20 season when he signed a three-year contract extension with the Kings. He was named to the AHL All-Star Game in January 2020, showcasing his talent and potential. On September 22, 2021, he signed another contract extension with the Kings, solidifying his position within the organization. However, on June 6, 2023, Petersen was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers as part of a three-team trade. He continued to develop his skills and contribute to his teams.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Petersen has been recognized for his impressive performances, including setting records during his college career and achieving milestones in the NHL. His journey reflects his dedication to the sport and his growth as a professional athlete.
Cal Petersen Award Nominations
Cal Petersen has received recognition for his performances throughout his career, particularly during his time at the University of Notre Dame, where he was a finalist for the Mike Richter Award.
Cal Petersen Awards Won
While specific awards won are not detailed, Petersen’s achievements in college hockey and his successful transition to the NHL highlight his capabilities as a goaltender.
Cal Petersen Family
Cal Petersen’s father, Eric Petersen, was also a goaltender who played Division III hockey at Bethel University in Minnesota. This familial connection to the sport has likely influenced Petersen’s own career in hockey.
Personal Life
Details about Cal Petersen’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. His focus remains on his professional career and contributions to the sport of ice hockey.
