EASTON, Mass. (April 29, 2026) – Senior defender Sydney Russell of Stonehill College women's hockey has signed a professional contract with MAC Budapest of the European Women's Hockey League (EWHL).

"We're thrilled to see Syd extending her career in Hungary," said head coach Lee-J Mirasolo. "She was an exceptional three zone player for us with and without the puck, and we have no doubt she will be an asset for her next team."

Russell, the first Skyhawk in program history to serve as team captain for two consecutive seasons, departs as one of the most decorated defenders in program history. She holds the school record with 168 blocked shots and ranks as the top-scoring defender with 59 career points across 151 games.

A native of Nashville, Russell appeared in every game during her four-year collegiate career. She capped her senior campaign with a career-best 20 points on six goals and 14 assists, while leading the team with 54 blocked shots and posting a +5 rating in conference play.

Russell joins a MAC Budapest team that finished sixth in the EWHL standings in 2025–26 with a 12-7-0-3 record.

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