Anne Schleper was born on January 30, 1990, in St. Cloud, Minnesota, to parents Deb and Jim Schleper. Growing up in Minnesota, Anne was introduced to the sport of hockey at a young age. She began playing hockey for the St. Cloud Ice Breakers, where she quickly developed a passion for the game.
Throughout her high school years, Anne continued to excel on the ice, playing for both the Ice Breakers and her high school team. Her skills and dedication to the sport did not go unnoticed, as she earned the prestigious Ms. Hockey title and was named the team's Most Valuable Player during both her junior and senior seasons.
After high school, Anne went on to play collegiately for the Minnesota Golden Gophers women's ice hockey program as a defender. Her time at Minnesota was marked by success, as she helped lead the team to an NCAA national championship in 2012. Anne's exceptional defensive skills and leadership on the ice earned her numerous accolades, including WCHA First Team honors, a spot on the WCHA All-Academic Team, the 2011 Big Ten Outstanding Sportsmanship Award, and the 2012 Big Ten Medal of Honor.
Anne's success on the ice extended beyond her collegiate career. She became one of 12 Gopher women's hockey players to compete in the Olympics, representing the United States on the national team. Anne was a three-time member of the US hockey team, with her most notable achievement being a gold medal win with the 2008 18-Under team. Alongside teammate Brianne McLaughlin, Anne helped the United States Olympic women's hockey team win the silver medal in 2012.
Anne Schleper's contributions to the world of women's hockey have left a lasting legacy. Her skill, dedication, and sportsmanship on the ice have set an example for aspiring young athletes everywhere. Beyond her success in hockey, Anne also serves as a role model for balancing athletic excellence with academic achievement.
Off the ice, Anne remains involved in the hockey community, working to inspire the next generation of players. Her passion for the sport continues to drive her, as she uses her platform to advocate for equality and inclusivity in women's hockey.
Anne Schleper's journey from a young girl lacing up her skates in St. Cloud to a champion on the international stage serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Her impact on the sport of hockey and the lives of those around her will be felt for years to come.
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