UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa.- In her final year at Penn State University, Kate Connolly Werner used her knowledge as a women's hockey player to make extra money by officiating games. Werner, a 2005 graduate, moved up the hockey officiating ranks post-graduation, an experience that has taken her all over the world.
Werner's time as a player on Penn State's club team played a vital role in her success today. She was selected as a lineswoman by the International Ice Hockey Federation for top events and in her career has worked a total of six World Championships. GoPSUsports.com had the chance to catch up with Werner and reflect on her experience as a player at Penn State.
GoPSUsports.com: Why did you choose to continue your hockey career at Penn State University?
Kate Werner: Growing up I went to a small high school and wanted to expand my world in college. I looked into bigger schools and had to decide between Penn State and Michigan University. I chose Penn State University because it was the best fit for me. I could easily drive to campus but still, be far enough away from home.
GoPSUsports.com: What is one of your most memorable moments from being on the Penn State's women's hockey team?
KW: My freshman year the team placed third at nationals after defeating Boston University. This was such an amazing experience and it spurred me to work even harder throughout my career. We qualified for nationals a total of three times when I was a player.
GoPSUsports.com: Where has your life taken you since graduating from Penn State University?
KW: From a hockey perspective I started officiating my senior year of college for some extra money. I then moved up the officiating ranks fairly quickly, I currently work for the National Women's Hockey League. Officiating has allowed me to travel around the world. I have worked a total of six world championships. I also work as an assistant director of national accounts at the Hartford in group insurance.
GoPSUsports.com: Who at Penn State University made the greatest impact on you as a player and in your personal life?
KW: Billie Willits made the greatest impact on my life. She was our coach my freshman year and was a super successful human resources representative at Penn State. Willits showed me you could be not only successful in business but also as a coach and as a good person. She is someone I have always looked up to and strived to be like.
GoPSUsports.com: Through your experiences how have you seen the growth of the program over the years?
KW: The building of Pegula Ice arena was a groundbreaking moment for the program. Through my time officiating I have personally seen a lot of Division I rinks, but nothing compares to Penn State. Over the years Penn State has continued to grow its program by having quality individuals on and off the rink. I think they could potentially be a national contender and win a championship.
GoPSUsports.com: How have you stayed in contact with the program over the years?
KW: I am still very close to the girls in my graduating class. They all attended my wedding last year, we all have this very close bond. We were still doing the same dances we did in the locker room on the dance floor. Through officiating I have been able to keep tabs on the team. I have actually officiated for them a couple of times. I have also followed the team's progress on social media.
GoPSUsports.com: What was it like officiating a team that you used to play for?
KW: When officiating I only see the game as one color versus the other. You don't have time to even notice what team is playing. However, after the fact it's amazing to return to the school, I used to play for while still doing what I love. The feeling is surreal!
GoPSUsports.com: Do you have a favorite team or game you officiated for?
KW: I worked the gold medal game between the USA versus Canada at the Four Nations Cup. This was a huge game and such an incredible experience. I knew they were rivals but thought they would have mutual respect for each other. I have never seen a hockey game like that before it was really cool to be a part of.
GoPSUsports.com: What personal or professional accomplishment(s) are you most proud of since you graduated?
KW: I am proud of where my officiating career has taken me. I am internationally licensed and have worked in several world championships. I am also extremely proud of where I am professional. I was recently promoted to an assistant director position at a very large insurance company. My Penn State education and experiences aided in all my accomplishments.
GoPSUsports.com: Do you have any advice for the current Penn State women's hockey players?
KW: Enjoy your time at Penn State! It was the best four years of my life and went by so quickly. Don't waste time stressing too much about the small stuff because it will all work out in the end!
