Beyond the Games: Annie Katonka's Journey from Team USA to Coaching the Next Generation

Former FISU World University Games hockey player continues to make an impact by developing the next generation of female athletes.

For Annie Katonka, the game of hockey has always been about more than wins, championships, and individual accolades. Today, the former Team USA student-athlete is using her experience on the ice to help shape the future of women's hockey.

Representing the United States on the International Stage

In January 2023, Katonka earned the opportunity to represent the United States in women's ice hockey at the FISU World University Games in Lake Placid, New York.

Competing on home soil while wearing the USA jersey marked another significant milestone in an already accomplished hockey career.

The FISU World University Games bring together collegiate athletes from around the world, providing an opportunity to compete internationally while representing their countries and universities.

For Katonka, the experience became part of a journey that would eventually take her from competing at the highest levels of collegiate hockey to helping develop the next generation of players.

A Collegiate Career Defined by Excellence

Before representing Team USA, Katonka established herself as one of the standout players in NCAA Division III women's hockey during her time at Plattsburgh State University.

Her collegiate accomplishments included:

• 2019 NCAA Division III National Champion

• Three-time First Team All-American

• Two-time SUNYAC Player of the Year

• Four consecutive NCAA Frozen Four appearances

• Four conference championships

• Three-year team captain

• NCAA Division III leader in goals for two seasons

Beyond her individual achievements, Katonka demonstrated leadership throughout her collegiate career, serving as a team captain and contributing to a program with a tradition of championship success.

Those experiences helped lay the foundation for her next chapter in hockey.

From Player to Coach: Giving Back to the Game

Today, Katonka has transitioned from competing on the ice to leading from behind the bench.

A Pittsburgh native, she is entering her third season with Pittsburgh Steel City Selects Hockey, serving as Head Coach of the organization's 19U team.

Her coaching philosophy centers on creating an environment where young athletes can enjoy the game, compete at a high level, and continue developing both as players and individuals.

During her time with the organization, Katonka has helped guide teams to back-to-back appearances in the quarterfinals of the USA Hockey National Championships.

Her commitment to growing the sport extends beyond the Steel City Selects. She has also served as an assistant coach with the North Pittsburgh Wildcats, worked with Learn to Skate programs throughout the Pittsburgh area, and contributed to hockey development camps in the Northeast New York district.

Through these experiences, Katonka continues to create opportunities for young players to build confidence, strengthen their skills, and discover their own potential in the sport.

A Legacy That Extends Beyond Competition

Katonka's journey reflects the lasting impact of collegiate athletics and international competition.

From winning a national championship at Plattsburgh State to representing the United States at the FISU World University Games, her playing career provided experiences that continue to influence her work today.

Now, as a coach and mentor, she is helping young women pursue their own goals while contributing to the continued growth of women's hockey.

Her story is a reminder that an athlete's impact doesn't end with their final game. For many, the lessons, relationships, and leadership developed through sport become the foundation for an entirely new chapter.

For Annie Katonka, the jersey may have changed, but her commitment to the game and the next generation remains.

Beyond the Games: Celebrating the UniUSA Legacy

Through its Beyond the Games series, UniUSA highlights former student-athletes who have represented the United States at FISU competitions and continue to make meaningful contributions in their careers, communities, and beyond.

From international competition to professional leadership, coaching, and service, these stories celebrate the lasting impact of the student-athlete experience.

The next generation of Team USA student-athletes is preparing for its own international journey.

Follow UniUSA (@uniusateam) on social media as we spotlight the athletes preparing to represent the United States at the 2027 FISU Winter Games in Changchun, China, and continue sharing the stories of those whose impact extends far beyond the games.