Charlotte Sonntag's journey to the PWHL Draft reads like a story of resilience, family, and an unshakeable passion for hockey. Growing up, she moved between several ski towns, but through every change, the ice remained her constant home. Now, as she prepares to hear her name called at the 2026 PWHL Draft, Sonntag is poised to join a league that has captivated fans worldwide with sold-out arenas and electric atmospheres.
"Honestly, I don't think it's quite hit me yet," Sonntag shared, her excitement mixed with a touch of nerves. "I know I'm super excited for the opportunity, but I'm also very nervous because it's all the best players in the world. You look on social media and see all these posts of them selling out stadiums, and the impact they've made on the hockey world, and the growth they've had. Even just having that opportunity to potentially be a part of that is beyond incredible for me."
A native of Sun Valley, Idaho, Sonntag is wrapping up an extraordinary career at Holy Cross, where she double-majored in chemistry and economics—a testament to her discipline both on and off the ice. Her name is now etched in the Crusaders' record books: she became the first player in program history to record a hat trick and holds the record for most single-game goals in the Hockey East Era with three. Her classroom performance has been equally impressive, earning her a spot on the Hockey East All-Academic Team for three consecutive seasons.
As she prepares to leave Holy Cross, Sonntag reflects on the lasting impact she's made—but she's quick to credit one person who shaped her journey: her older sister, Katie. Katie played collegiate hockey at Union College before going on to play professionally in Switzerland, and she has been a guiding force throughout Charlotte's life.
"Having her kind of be that sole mentor for me my entire life has been one of the most incredible experiences that I've had," Sonntag said. "She's four years older than me, so she went through everything. It's honestly just so nice to have that person that you can turn to for everything."
With her sister's wisdom in her corner and a record-setting college career behind her, Sonntag is ready for the next chapter. The PWHL awaits—and if her track record is any indication, she's more than ready to make her mark.