5 Questions With: Jesse Compher And Kali Flanagan

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By: PWHL Toronto Media February 22, 2024

Jesse Compher and Kali Flanagan hold the distinction of being the only Americans on a roster full of Canadians, and both have come out on top of some legendary tilts against current teammates and staff.

Compher and the United States took back-to-back gold medals at the 2016 and 2017 U18 World Championships against Canada. Flanagan was a part of the USA’s triumphant win versus Canada at the 2018 Olympic Winter Games— the first gold for Team USA since the inaugural tournament in 1998—and the year prior took gold at the 2017 World Championship.

Now let’s get to know a bit more about the Americans in Toronto!

What was your favourite subject in school?

Compher: Math – I just think it’s fun!

Flanagan: My favorite subject in school was History - I just liked learning about different places and things that happened in the world.

Who is the first person you call after a game?

Compher: My parents because they watch every game and it’s nice to hear from them no matter what the result is.

Flanagan: I always call my dad first after a game- he’s my biggest supporter and he played Division 1 hockey at RPI and now owns a rink and coaches; so, we’ve been able to bond over hockey since I was a little kid. All we do is talk about hockey!

Which room in your house is your favourite?

Compher: In front of the fireplace in my family room. It’s the most relaxing and I love spending time with my family there.

Flanagan: Definitely the kitchen - I’m a big coffee person and I have a fun Breville coffee machine where I make my pre-game coffee (4 shots of espresso with cashew milk and maple syrup). Can’t forget that it’s also where I make my pre-game pancakes!

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Compher: Sushi. Especially spicy tuna with crispy rice!

Flanagan: A lobster roll!

What is your dream travel destination?

Compher: Thailand and the Amalfi Coast in Italy, I really want to go to both. Both locations you always see stunning photos of the landscapes and the water, and I just want to see that beauty for myself!

Flanagan: My favorite place to travel so far has been Maui, Hawaii. It’s beautiful and there’s so many different things you can do. My dream destination might be Italy though, so I can try the pasta.