Recent University of Toronto Varsity Blues women's hockey graduate Breanna Berndsen has signed a two-year contract with the Aisulu Almaty in the European Women's Hockey League.
 
The Kelowna, B.C., native played three seasons for the Blues (2017-20), helping U of T to their first OUA championship title since 2003 this past winter.
 
Berndsen hopes that the Aisulu Almaty contract leads to international opportunities.
 
"I'm applying for dual citizenship to become a Kazakhstani citizen," said Berndsen. "Then I would be eligible to compete in IIHF sanctioned events, like the world Universiade, world championship, Olympic qualifiers and hopefully the 2022 Olympic Games."
 
While awaiting permission for foreign athletes to enter the country, the recent sociology graduate out of U of T's Woodsworth College is excited to get started on the next chapter of her hockey career.
 
"I'm looking forward to continuing my career overseas and being able to travel all over Europe," added Berndsen. "The potential of competing in the Olympics is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
 
For more information, scores and highlights on your favourite U of T athletes and teams, please visit www.varsityblues.ca. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for the latest and greatest in Varsity Blues intercollegiate athletics.