Connecticut Whale Sign Undrafted BC Defender, Kaliya Johnson

Kaliya Johnson (NWHL)

The Connecticut Whale announced on Monday that they signed Kaliya Johnson to a one-year contract for the 2016-2017 National Women’s Hockey League season.

Whale general manager, Lisa Giovanelli made the announcement saying that the organization and Johnson, an undrafted defender from Boston College agreed on a contract worth 13,000 for the season.

Giovanelli said, “The Whale is very happy to add Kaliya Johnson to our roster for next season. She is a great skater and a strong, solid defenseman that adds depth to our blue line. Coming off of a tremendous senior season with Boston College, in which they finished the season with a record of 40-1, Kaliya knows what it takes to win games consistently compete at a high level. She will contribute greatly in our quest for the Isobel Cup.”

Johnson played 142 games for the BC Eagles during her National Collegiate Athletic Association career, putting up 43 points (7 goals and 36 assists) while defending the blue line.

At the 2012 International Ice Hockey Federation, Under-18 World Championships she helped lead Team USA to a silver medal.

Johnson said, “It is an incredible to have the chance to continue my hockey career in the NWHL. I am beyond excited to join the Whale family! This league is very competitive and I am very excited for what next year has in store.”

The unrestricted free agency period began on May 1 and runs through July 31, with the 2016 NWHL Junior Draft being held on June 18.