Grace Klienbach enters her sixth season as Assistant Coach of the Neumann University women’s ice hockey program in 2026–27, bringing an accomplished background in collegiate and professional hockey, player development, and leadership within the women’s game.
A former standout forward for the Knights, Klienbach graduated from Neumann University in 2017 after a four-year collegiate career in which she appeared in 100 consecutive NCAA Division III games. A two-year team captain, she earned ECAC All-Academic Team honors all four years and became one of the program’s most respected leaders both on and off the ice.
Klienbach went on to compete professionally for five seasons in the PHF/NWHL, beginning her professional career with the Connecticut Whale after being drafted by the Toronto Fury of the CWHL. She was selected to the 2020 NWHL All-Star Game and competed in the fastest skater competition during All-Star Weekend. Klienbach also played for the Buffalo Beauts and was recognized for her commitment to growing the game, receiving the NWHL Foundation Award with the Connecticut Whale in 2021 and the Buffalo Beauts in 2022.
In addition to her role with Neumann, Klienbach has built a respected coaching résumé focused on girls’ hockey development. Since 2021, she has served as Director of the Philadelphia Little Flyers Girls program, where she led teams to two USA Hockey Girls Tier II National Championships, including titles at the 14U and 16U age groups. She was named Atlantic District Girls Coach of the Year for the 2024–25 season.
Through her coaching career, Klienbach has helped numerous athletes advance to NCAA Division I and Division III programs, ACHA programs, Tier I organizations, prep schools, and professional hockey. Her commitment to mentorship, skill development, and the continued growth of women’s hockey reflects her passion for helping student-athletes reach their full potential.
