Two Wisconsin Badgers hockey stars have been recognized with one of college athletics' highest honors—the Big Ten Medal of Honor. Women's hockey standout Caroline Harvey and men's team captain Ben Dexheimer both earned the prestigious award, which celebrates excellence not only on the ice but also in the classroom and community.
Harvey, projected as the No. 1 pick in the upcoming PWHL draft, capped her Badgers career in spectacular fashion. The Olympic gold medalist helped lead Wisconsin to another National Championship, further cementing her legacy. Meanwhile, Dexheimer guided the men's team to their first National Championship game since 2010, a remarkable achievement that highlighted his leadership and skill. He has since signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Wild and finished the 2026 season with their AHL affiliate in Iowa.
Wisconsin boasts what many consider the top coaching duo in college hockey—Mark Johnson for the women's team and Mike Hastings for the men's. Their ability to develop talent like Harvey and Dexheimer is a testament to the program's culture of excellence. For fans of the sport, this honor underscores why the Badgers remain a powerhouse in collegiate hockey.
