Izzy Daniel, a distinguished senior forward for the Cornell women’s ice hockey team, has etched her name in the annals of history by becoming the first player from the program to claim the esteemed Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award. An annual honour, the award recognises the top player in NCAA Division 1 Women’s Ice Hockey.
Throughout the 2023-24 season, Daniel’s exceptional speed, strength, and vision on the ice set her apart from her peers. Her outstanding performance did not go unnoticed, as she garnered accolades from her conference and eventually achieved national acclaim with the presentation of the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award at the NCAA Women’s Frozen Four.
The Patty Kazmaier Award, affectionately known as the “Patty Kaz,” holds paramount significance in women’s hockey and is bestowed upon the top player who embodies a blend of individual and team skills, sportsmanship, personal character, and a passion for the sport.
In addition to the Patty Kazmaier Award, Daniel also received the Ivy League Player of the Year, ECAC Forward of the Year, and ECAC Player of the Year awards. She was also honoured with a place on the All-Ivy and All-ECAC first teams, underscoring the remarkable season she has enjoyed.
As of March 23, Daniel stands among the premier players in the nation in assists, points, and goals per game. She led her team with 38 assists and 21 goals, contributing to an impressive 59 points over the course of the season. Her exceptional performance propelled Cornell to fourth place in the ECAC regular season, the semifinals of the ECAC tournament, and the quarterfinals of the NCAA tournament.
Despite her collegiate career drawing to a close, Daniel’s journey in the realm of hockey is far from reaching its conclusion. She has been invited to participate in the 2024 U.S. Women’s National Team evaluation camp in Lake Placid, a remarkable opportunity to further exhibit her talent on the international stage.
Izzy Daniel’s legacy at Cornell bears the hallmarks of excellence. She has left an indelible impression on the women’s hockey program, setting a lofty standard for future players. Her triumph in clinching the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award is not only a personal victory but also a watershed moment for Cornell women’s hockey, charting the course for future generations of players.
In summation, Izzy Daniel’s extraordinary odyssey in the realm of women’s hockey has been nothing short of exceptional. With myriad accolades and a groundbreaking triumph in securing the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award, she has cemented her status as a trailblazer in the annals of women’s hockey history.