UMD’s Grace Sadura Talks Hockey Humanitarian Award Nomination

Sadura is one of 12 nominees for the 2026 Hockey Humanitarian Award.

DULUTH, Minn.- Junior forward Grace Sadura has been making plays all season long for the UMD women’s hockey team.

But the alternate captain doesn’t only make an impact for her team, she also gives back to her community.

Which has been recognized at the national level.

Sadura is one of 12 nominees for the 2026 Hockey Humanitarian Award.

This honor is given to the college hockey student athlete that has impacted their team and the community in a positive manner.

Off the ice, Sadura is the Co-President of the UMD DEI council.

She also volunteers at the 7 Stars Horse Ranch.

During Sadura’s time with UMD, she has always puts others first.

“She epitomizes what it means to be selfless. She’s always putting her teammates first, she’s our volunteer coordinator for our team and arranges so many volunteer efforts for our team,” said UMD head coach Laura Schuler.” We call Grace the connector on our team, there is a reason she is a leader on our team. She’s kind of continued the amazing history of excellences on in terms of community service work for us. ”

For Sadura, winning this award would be an honor.

But she doesn’t give back to her community just for the recognition and accolades.

” It would mean everything, but also at the same time I don’t really do what I do to look for recognition or look for awards and that kind of thing. I do it because I care about our community and I care about people,” said Sadura. “I would say I’m a big people first person. But it’s not the type of recognition that I’m seeking or anything. I’m just happy to be here and to do what I love everyday with my friends.”

The last UMD Bulldog to win the Humanitarian Award was Gabbie Hughes back in 2023.

This year’s winner will be announced on Friday, April 10th.