The Central York Panthers would like to
congratulate our graduating 2023-24 Jr Panther Hannah Franz on her commitment
to Wilkes University and playing hockey for the NCAA Division III Wilkes
University Colonels women’s hockey team. Hannah is a great example to all
Panthers that if you work hard enough you can realize your dreams. We are so
proud of you Hannah!
(May , 2024 Aurora, Ontario) – The Central York Girls Hockey Association are pleased to announce that their 2023-24 Jr Panther Hannah Franz has committed to play for the women’s hockey program at NCAA Division III Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania for the 2024-25 season.
Hannah was always on a mission from day one of becoming a Panther. Hannah came to the Panthers as a result of working extremely hard during the pandemic and proving to the Panther organization that she would never ease up in her pursuit to become the best player possible. Hannah is a great example that the pathway to success is not a straight line. Hannah had some ups and downs while she was a Panther but even a change in position from defense to forward this year could not derail her. Hannah also struggled with her confidence as well as her mental well being. She showed extreme resilience and has come out on the other side of these challenges as an even stronger person.
Hannah is an outstanding ambassador for our team. She takes pride in being a very inclusive and welcoming person to anyone that steps into our Jr dressing room. Hannah has left a huge footprint on our program and we are so very proud of her. Hannah bet on herself through all of her challenges and she has won the ultimate prize. Not only has she achieved her goal of playing university hockey for a prestigious program but she has also won the knowledge that there is nothing out there that she can not overcome. Hannah has become an inspiration for her entire team and anyone that knows her!
Usually a very quiet person who keeps her thoughts to herself, Hannah really opened up to us when asked about her time here with the Central York Panthers. “My time with the Central York Panthers has been truly amazing. Moving away from home to play hockey was difficult, but my teammates welcomed me without hesitation and became like a second family to me. I am beyond grateful for my coaches, who continuously pushed me past my limits, challenging me to step outside of my comfort zone to become a better player. The culture of the team provided me with a safe space to open up about my mental health journey. With their support, I started to share my story within the community and advocate for mental health awareness in sports. I truly believe that without the guidance and encouragement of my coaches and teammates, I wouldn’t be where I am today”, declared an emotional Franz.
