Jillian Dempsey Bio
Jillian T. Dempsey (born January 19, 1991) is an American professional ice hockey player for the Boston Fleet of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). The former captain of the Boston Pride of the now-defunct Premier Hockey Federation (PHF), she holds the all-time PHF records for games played, goals, assists, and points, and is one of only two players to have won the Isobel Cup three times. Dempsey’s impactful career has made her a prominent figure in women’s ice hockey, showcasing her skills and leadership on the ice.
Early Life and Background
Jillian Dempsey was born in Winthrop, Massachusetts, where she grew up in a supportive environment that nurtured her passion for sports. She attended the Rivers School, where she likely began to develop her skills in ice hockey. Dempsey later pursued her education at Harvard College, majoring in Classics, which reflects her dedication to both academics and athletics. Her time at Harvard not only honed her intellectual abilities but also provided her with a platform to excel in ice hockey.
Path to Hockey
Dempsey played for the Harvard Crimson women’s ice hockey team from 2009 to 2013, serving as team captain in her final season. Across 129 NCAA games, she scored 148 points, finishing in the top-10 all-time scorers for Harvard and being named a top-10 finalist for the 2013 Patty Kazmaier Award. After her collegiate career, she was selected as the 10th overall pick by the Boston Blades in the 2013 CWHL Draft, marking the beginning of her professional journey. Dempsey’s early achievements set the stage for her future successes in the sport.
Jillian Dempsey Career
Early Career (2011–2015)
Dempsey began her professional career in 2011 and quickly made a name for herself in the women’s hockey scene. She joined the Bisons de Neuilly-sur-Marne on loan for the first round of the 2013–14 IIHF European Women’s Champions Cup, where she scored 13 points in just three games. In 2014, she was awarded the CWHL’s Rookie of the Year Award after leading all American-born players in league scoring. The following season, she contributed significantly to the Blades’ success, scoring 19 points in 22 games as the team won the 2015 Clarkson Cup.
Breakthrough (2015–2020)
When the NWHL was formed in 2015, Dempsey transitioned to the Boston Pride, where she would achieve remarkable milestones. In 2018, she was named captain of the Pride, showcasing her leadership qualities. Dempsey became the first player in league history to reach 100 career points, including playoffs, on January 26, 2020. This achievement highlighted her consistency and skill on the ice. In February 2020, she was recognized as one of the 25 most powerful women in hockey by Sportsnet, further solidifying her status in the sport.
Notable Works and Milestones
Dempsey’s signature work includes her pivotal role in leading the Boston Pride to multiple championships, including the Isobel Cup. She shared the 2020 NWHL MVP award, underscoring her impact during that season. Dempsey’s career has been marked by her resilience, as she played through injuries and continued to excel, making her a respected figure in women’s ice hockey.
Jillian Dempsey Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Jillian Dempsey has received numerous nominations for her outstanding performances on the ice. Her contributions to the sport have not gone unnoticed, as she has consistently been recognized for her skill and leadership.
Jillian Dempsey Awards Won
Dempsey has won several prestigious awards, including the CWHL Rookie of the Year Award and the NWHL MVP award, showcasing her excellence in women’s ice hockey.
Jillian Dempsey Family
Information regarding Jillian Dempsey’s family is limited. However, it is known that her father, Jack Dempsey, serves as the Boston Fire Department commissioner, indicating a family background of public service.
Personal Life
Jillian Dempsey is a graduate of Harvard College, where she majored in Classics. After completing a master’s in education, she joined the Teach For America program and became a fifth-grade teacher in her hometown of Winthrop, Massachusetts. Dempsey balanced her teaching career with her professional hockey commitments, demonstrating her dedication to both education and sports. In early August 2025, she announced her retirement from professional hockey on social media, marking the end of an illustrious career.