Erin Whitten is a groundbreaking figure in the world of ice hockey, known for breaking barriers as both a player and a coach. As one of the first women to compete in male-dominated professional hockey leagues, Whitten made history with her skill, resilience, and determination. From winning games in leagues like the ECHL and AHL to becoming a respected coach in women’s hockey, her career has been nothing short of inspiring. This article explores her journey—from her early life and education to her professional achievements, family life, and lasting impact on the sport.
Who is Erin Whitten?
Erin Whitten is a trailblazing American ice hockey goaltender and coach, widely known for breaking gender barriers in professional ice hockey. As one of the few women to compete in male-dominated professional leagues, She has inspired countless athletes with her determination, skill, and dedication to the sport. Her achievements as a goaltender in both women’s and men’s leagues have earned her a prominent place in hockey history.
Born on October 26, 1971, in Glens Falls, New York, Erin Whitten became a well-respected figure in the hockey world through her playing career and coaching efforts. She is celebrated for her trailblazing career, which saw her compete in several male-dominated professional hockey leagues and achieve numerous accolades with the U.S. women’s national team.
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Early Life
Erin Whitten was born and raised in Glens Falls, New York. From a young age, she exhibited a passion for sports, particularly ice hockey. Her love for the game grew as she spent her early years on the ice, learning and developing her skills as a goaltender. Despite the challenges women faced in entering the professional hockey world, She was determined to make her mark. Her early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for her remarkable career.
Education
She attended the University of New Hampshire, where she played for the women’s hockey team and quickly became one of the most distinguished players. During her time at university, she was named ECAC Goalie of the Year four times, further solidifying her reputation as one of the top goaltenders in the game. Her education not only provided her with academic achievements but also allowed her to hone her skills on the ice, preparing her for a career that would make history.
Biography
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Erin Whitten-Hamlen |
| Date of Birth | October 26, 1971 |
| Birthplace | Glens Falls, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Ice Hockey Player, Coach |
| Alma Mater | University of New Hampshire |
| Playing Position | Goaltender |
| Leagues Played In | AHL, CHL, ECHL, COHL |
| Notable Achievements | First woman to win a professional hockey game |
Career
Erin Whitten’s career is nothing short of legendary. She made history by being the first woman to win a professional hockey game in a male-dominated league. On October 30, 1993, playing for the Toledo Storm in the ECHL, she replaced an injured teammate and led her team to a 6-5 victory over the Dayton Bombers. This achievement solidified her place as a pioneer in the world of hockey.
Whitten didn’t stop there. She went on to play in the American Hockey League (AHL), the Central Hockey League (CHL), the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL), and the Colonial Hockey League (COHL), making her the first woman to compete in four different men’s professional leagues. Throughout her career, she also played for the U.S. women’s national team, winning multiple silver medals at the IIHF Women’s World Championships.
After her playing career, she transitioned into coaching. She served as an assistant coach at the University of New Hampshire and later became the head coach of the Merrimack Warriors women’s ice hockey team. Her coaching career has been just as impressive as her playing days, and she continues to contribute to the development of women’s hockey.
Career Breakdown
| Years | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1993-1994 | Toledo Storm (ECHL) | Goaltender |
| 1995-1996 | Flint Generals (CoHL) | Goaltender |
| 1992-1997 | U.S. National Women’s Team | Goaltender |
| 2000-2010 | University of New Hampshire | Assistant Coach |
| 2013-Present | Merrimack Warriors | Head Coach |
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Family
Erin Whitten was born to a supportive family in Glens Falls, New York. Her family played an integral role in her success, encouraging her passion for hockey from an early age. Erin also has a daughter named Alli Hamlen, who shares her last name after Erin married. Despite the challenges she faced in a male-dominated sport, her family’s unwavering support helped her achieve her goals.
Family Overview
| Family Member | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Erin Whitten | Self |
| Alli Hamlen | Daughter |
| Unknown | Spouse |
Net Worth
As of 2024, Erin Whitten has a net worth estimated to be around $1 million to $5 million. This wealth has been accumulated through her long career as a professional hockey player and later as a coach. Her contributions to hockey, particularly women’s hockey, have garnered her recognition and financial success.
Her coaching career at Merrimack College has also provided her with a steady income, and her previous experience as a professional athlete contributes to her overall net worth. Although she may not have earned the same level of financial compensation as male athletes in hockey, her influence and legacy in the sport are invaluable.
Net Worth Breakdown
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $1 million – $3 million |
| 2023 | $1.5 million – $4 million |
| 2024 | $1 million – $5 million |
Physical Appearance
Erin Whitten stands at 165 cm (5 feet 5 inches) and weighs around 73 kg (161 lbs). She is known for her athletic build, which was essential for her success as a goaltender in professional hockey. Even after retiring from active play, Erin Whitten has maintained her fitness, which she uses to train and coach young athletes in ice hockey.
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 165 cm / 5’5″ |
| Weight | 73 kg / 161 lbs |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Brown |
Where She Lived
Throughout her life, Erin Whitten has lived in several places, primarily in the United States. Born in Glens Falls, New York, she spent most of her early life there. During her playing career, she traveled across the country to represent various teams. Her current residence is near Merrimack College in Massachusetts, where she works as a coach. Despite her travels, Erin Whitten maintains strong ties to her hometown of Glens Falls.
Social Links
As a public figure in the hockey world, Erin Whitten is not very active on social media. However, she does have a presence in sports news and coaching communities, where she is often featured for her contributions to women’s ice hockey. Fans of Erin Whitten can follow her coaching career through updates from Merrimack College and various sports media outlets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Erin Whitten?
Erin Whitten is a former American ice hockey goaltender and coach, known for being one of the first women to play in men’s professional hockey leagues like the ECHL, AHL, CHL, and COHL. She is now a successful coach for the Merrimack Warriors women’s ice hockey team.
What is Erin Whitten famous for?
Erin Whitten is famous for being the first woman to win a professional hockey game as a goaltender and for competing in multiple male-dominated professional hockey leagues, breaking gender barriers in the sport.
What teams did Erin Whitten play for?
Erin Whitten played for teams such as the Toledo Storm, Flint Generals, Adirondack Red Wings, and the U.S. women’s national team, winning multiple silver medals at the IIHF Women’s World Championships.
What is Erin Whitten doing now?
Erin Whitten is currently the head coach of the Merrimack Warriors women’s ice hockey team, where she continues to influence and develop the next generation of female athletes in the sport.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Erin Whitten has made an indelible mark on the world of ice hockey, both as a trailblazing goaltender and a respected coach. Her journey from a young athlete in Glens Falls, New York, to breaking gender barriers in professional hockey, is a testament to her skill, perseverance, and passion for the game. By competing in male-dominated leagues and achieving success at the highest levels, she has paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Today, as a coach and mentor, Erin Whitten continues to shape the landscape of women’s hockey, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire athletes for years to come. Her story is not just one of personal triumph, but a powerful example of what can be achieved when determination and talent meet opportunity.
