Lauren Wash returns to the Riveters

Yesterday, Riveters head coach Chad Wiseman confirmed that forward Lauren Wash will return to the team in time for Saturday’s game.

In a statement released by the league today, Wash shared her excitement to rejoin the team. “I just needed a little time to figure out what was best for me. I needed to get started in school and see if playing would be in my best interest,” the statement read. “I’m always gonna believe in this team and I’m so happy to be back!”

Wash initially joined the team last January and re-signed during free agency. However, before the puck dropped on the third season, Wash announced via Twitter that she was stepping away.

Incredibly grateful to have been a Riveter. Thank you to the @NYRiveters for everything & the memories. 💙❤️🖤 pic.twitter.com/X0HRW9jsfS

— Lauren Wash (@Ljwash10) August 13, 2017

In a statement released by the NWHL, Wash announced her intentions to return to school.

“I’m leaving the NWHL because I have decided to go back to school this fall to study to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I’m super-excited to move forward with something I'm so passionate about, but I’m also sad because it's hard to leave the Riveters. I want to thank the organization, my teammates and the NWHL for the amazing experience. My gratitude also goes out to the fans for their support of me, the Rivs and women’s hockey."

Despite stepping away, Wash has kept up with the Riveters throughout the season, even posing with fans at the historic home opener at the Prudential Center last month.

Besides of the big win of @Riveters opener, the highlight of the weekend was sharing beer with @Ljwash10 pic.twitter.com/6l2NfaDJwc

— Luke Korinek (@Diehard_Luke) October 28, 2017

The Metropolitan team heads into the contest in Stamford 2-0-0. Wash joins a fast, skilled group of Riveters forwards. In eight games last season, she tallied three points (1g, 2a).

According to team’s updated roster, Wash will wear number 21 this season for the Riveters.

Also of note is the addition of goalie Kimberly Sass. The founding member of the Buffalo Beauts dressed as the second goalie in the Riveters’ 6-2 win over Buffalo on Nov. 4. Sass will wear 1 this season for the Riveters

Wash and the Riveters take on the Connecticut Whale for the NWHL Twitter Game of the Week Saturday at 7 p.m.