Earlier this week, the Buffalo Beauts announced the team agreed to terms with forward Dani Cameranesi on a one-year contract.
"We're thrilled to be able to add such an accomplished, young player to the team," said General Manager Nik Fattey. "Dani brings a winning pedigree and offensive skills that we believe will pay dividends for our team this season."
Cameranesi (age 22, 5'5") recently won the gold medal with Team USA at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea. At the tournament, she tied for the team lead with five points (3 goals, 2 assists) and tied for fourth in the tournament in goals. Cameranesi previously represented the U.S. at the 2015 World Championship, where the team also won gold.
"I could not be more excited to announce my decision to sign my first pro contract with Buffalo. I ultimately desired to be a part of an organization experienced in running a professional sports business," Cameranesi said. "With their ownership in the NFL, NHL and other sports enterprises, the Pegula family is genuinely committed to bringing success to the City of Buffalo. Their passion for growing the game of women's hockey can be seen in the strong foundation they created for women through the Buffalo Beauts organization. I'm excited to be a part of the organization and can't wait to begin my professional career in Buffalo."
A native of Plymouth, Minnesota, Cameranesi attended the University of Minnesota (WCHA), where she was a member of two national championship teams (2014-15 and 2015-16). In 143 career games for the Gophers, she recorded 201 points (93/108) and a plus-152 rating. The 2013 Minnesota Ms. Hockey award winner was also named National Rookie of the Year after her freshman campaign at Minnesota.
"Coming off an epic Olympic gold medal with Team USA, Dani Cameranesi is an outstanding addition to the Beauts and the NWHL," NWHL Deputy Commissioner Hayley Moore said. "Her dynamic play and lethal shot are just a couple of her many strengths. The Buffalo fans will have a lot to cheer for with Dani on their ice! We look forward to watching her shine and continue to share and grow our sport in the community."
