One of the greatest honors an American can have is the chance to represent the USA on the international stage. The USA Under-18 Women’s National Team took the ice for the IIHF Under-18 Women’s World Championship from January 10-18, 2026, in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, competing against the best young players around the world. Junior Talla Hansen was selected to represent the United States, a tremendous honor that reflects her dedication to the game.

Being selected for the team is an outstanding opportunity, but it comes with a long process. During the summer of 2025, the top-considered girls played in scrimmages against other countries, and the coaches watched. Hansen and her team ended up winning the scrimmage series, which made a great showing. “We had a series of tryouts, and we won the summer series, and throughout the whole trial process, I just kept doing my best and continued to do well on the ice, and that’s how I got chosen,” Hansen said.

Once the team was formed, everything shifted to team dynamics. All the girls selected come from around the country, including Massachusetts, Minnesota, California, Connecticut, Illinois, etc. The team had only a few practices to build chemistry before their first game. Everyone came from different places and teams, so matching everyone’s dynamics was definitely a challenge. “Everyone who was selected for the team is the best from where they’re from, so trying to balance that on one team and figuring out everyone’s role was big, because everyone plays differently,” Hansen said.

As one of the nine girls selected from Minnesota, Hansen had a strong showing in the tournament. She scored six goals and had eight assists, totaling fourteen points overall. “It was an unforgettable experience. Coming together and playing as a team, and really getting to know everyone while playing on the ice, was super special,” Hansen said.

While the Benilde-St. Margaret’s girls’ varsity hockey team continued its season, team members also showed their constant support for Hansen. For the semi-final and the championship game, the team got together and cheered her on. “It was super cool to see one of our teammates be on the team and have her represent our school, state, and team, and I’m so happy for her,” junior Claire Dooley said.