Claire Thompson, a rookie defenseman for the Minnesota Frost, has quickly made a name for herself among her teammates with her offensive play-making skills and sharp analytical mind. At 26 years old, Thompson is not your typical rookie, as she has returned to hockey after pursuing her medical degree at NYU.
During her time at Princeton, Thompson had a successful playing career, finishing fifth on the Tigers career list of blue-liners with 87 points. She also represented Canada at the 2022 Beijing Games, helping her team win gold and setting a record for points by a defenseman in a single tournament.
Thompson’s return to hockey aligns with the Olympic cycle, as she aims to represent Canada at the 2026 Games in Italy. She was drafted third overall by Minnesota and has rejoined Team Canada, showcasing her skills in the Rivalry Series against the U.S.
Despite her focus on hockey, Thompson has not completely set aside her medical studies. She continues to work on medical projects in her spare time, balancing her passion for both hockey and medicine. She values the camaraderie and team environment that hockey provides, alongside the intellectual challenges of her medical studies.
Thompson’s unique approach to the game has caught the attention of her teammates and coaches. Known for taking calculated risks on the ice, Thompson’s fearless style of play has impressed many, including Canadian and Toronto Sceptres coach Troy Ryan. Despite being passed over by the Canadian national team program in the past, Thompson’s gambling style is now seen as an asset by her coaches.
Looking ahead, Thompson hopes to specialize in orthopedic surgery, drawing on her experiences in different medical fields during her clerkship. While she acknowledges that her hockey career may not last forever, she sees medicine as a long-term option for the future.
As Thompson navigates the complexities of balancing her dual passions for hockey and medicine, her teammates and coaches admire her dedication and unique approach to the game. With her eyes set on the 2026 Olympics and a career in orthopedic surgery, Claire Thompson continues to make her mark both on and off the ice.
