The Buffalo Beauts have added another player to their inaugural roster, by signing Colgate University graduate Kimberly Sass.
Sass, a 2012 graduate from Colgate University, won 34 career games in her four years with the Raiders, posting a .906 save percentage, and 2.87 goals against average. She graduated in 2012. and holds a program record for most minutes played in a season, and sits at third for saves in a season, and fourth in shutouts in a season, as well as wins in a season. Her most memorable performance came against Cornell, who was ranked third in the nation at the time. In that game, Sass posted 58 saves.
Prior to her college years, Sass played for the boys’ varsity team at Williamsville North High School just outside of Buffalo. She also played with the Buffalo Bison club team, and led the team to five New York State championships, as well as the United States quarterfinals in 2008, 2006, and 2005. She also won bronze with the team in 2007 and 2003.
Despite Sass’ somewhat low save percentage, Beauts general manager Linda Mroz was very impressed with Sass’ performance.
“With any team, having solid players between the pipes is extremely important,” she said, per NWHL.co. “Sass came to the Buffalo training camp and in one day dazzled me,” she continued, “I believe she will be a key player on our roster and a dependable one.”
Sass too, believes that she’s a reliable net-minder, and will look to bring that dependability to the professional stage.
“I think I am most valuable as a player for my consistency and confidence,” said Sass, “Throughout my career, I have always focused on being reliable in any situation. I am excited to bring my dynamic personality and undeniably competitive attitude to the team.”
On top of that, she’s thrilled to have the opportunity to play in Buffalo, her hometown.
“This opportunity is a dream come true. I went from coming to terms with my career being over after college, to pursuing a Master’s degree in architecture, and now, having the chance to play at the professional level and in my hometown is indescribable,” said Sass.
“I am happy to be playing the sport I love at home in front of my friends and family at the HarborCenter. I am excited to see women’s hockey and the inaugural season of the NWHL thrive in the midst of the ongoing redevelopment of the downtown Buffalo area, and I am proud to be a member of the Buffalo Beauts!”
Sass’ passion for the Buffalo area is certainly something that the Beauts are looking for, especially given the youthfulness of the league. Plus, it provides some extra fire for the 5-foot 5-inch goaltender to work off of.
Will Sass make an impact for the Beauts this season? Let us know what you think