Last Updated on November 12, 2026 by Janet Asprin
Zach Werenski is an American professional ice hockey player who plays as a defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on July 19, 1997, in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, United States, Werenski grew up in a close-knit family that supported his passion for hockey.
His family includes his wife, Odette Werenski (née Peters), their son, Hudson Charles Werenski, his father, Ken Werenski, his mother, Kristen Werenski, and his older brother, Brad Werenski.
Family has remained central to Werenski’s life throughout his professional career. In 2026, he celebrated several major milestones, including becoming a father, winning an Olympic gold medal with the United States, and receiving the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s best defenseman.
Zach Werenski’s Wife: Is He Married or Dating?
Zach Werenski is married to Odette Werenski, formerly known as Odette Peters, his longtime girlfriend and romantic partner.
The couple grew up in the same community in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, and knew each other long before beginning their romantic relationship.
According to an NHL feature published in February 2026, their families were acquainted during their childhood years.
Although Zach and Odette attended different schools, they maintained connections through their shared hometown.
Their romantic relationship began during Werenski’s second NHL season, around 2017 or 2018.
They subsequently spent several years together while he established himself as one of the Columbus Blue Jackets’ most important players.
Who Is Odette Werenski?
Odette Werenski is the wife of NHL defenseman Zach Werenski and the mother of their son Hudson.
She grew up in the Grosse Pointe area of Michigan, the same community as her husband.
According to reporting by The Columbus Dispatch, Odette attended Michigan State University, while Zach played college hockey at the University of Michigan.
Despite their universities’ longstanding athletic rivalry, the couple developed a strong relationship.
Odette has supported Zach throughout his NHL career, attending games and accompanying him to important international competitions.
In February 2025, Werenski publicly credited his then-fiancée with helping him navigate an emotionally challenging season following the death of his teammate and close friend Johnny Gaudreau.
During an interview with Us Weekly, he expressed appreciation for the emotional stability and support she provided.
Odette has also developed friendships with other hockey families, including Meredith Gaudreau and her children.
Although she occasionally shares family experiences publicly, reliable information about her professional occupation and other private details remains limited.
When Did Zach Werenski Get Married?
Zach Werenski married Odette Peters on July 26, 2025, in New Albany, Ohio, near Columbus.
The wedding date and location were confirmed by The Columbus Dispatch and NHL.com.
The couple became engaged in May 2024, approximately one year before their wedding.
During their engagement, Zach and Odette continued supporting each other through significant personal and professional milestones.
Their marriage represented another important step in a relationship that had begun years earlier in Michigan.
The couple subsequently established a family home in the Columbus area while maintaining close connections to relatives in suburban Detroit.
Zach Werenski’s Children
Zach Werenski and his wife, Odette, have one publicly confirmed child, a son named Hudson Charles Werenski.
Hudson was born on May 6, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio.
His birth was confirmed by the Columbus Blue Jackets and The Columbus Dispatch.
Hudson Charles Werenski: Zach Werenski’s Son
Hudson Charles Werenski is the first child of Zach and Odette Werenski.
He was born on May 6, 2026, less than a year after his parents’ wedding.
The couple publicly announced his arrival on May 10, 2026.
In February 2026, Zach and Odette had revealed that they were expecting their first child, a baby boy.
The pregnancy announcement came shortly before Werenski traveled to Italy to represent the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Hudson’s arrival marked an especially meaningful period in Zach’s life, as he was also enjoying one of the most successful seasons of his professional hockey career.
How Fatherhood Changed Zach Werenski
Becoming a father has significantly influenced Zach Werenski’s perspective on life and hockey.
In a Father’s Day interview published by the Columbus Blue Jackets on June 21, 2026, Werenski discussed the excitement of spending time with his newborn son.
He explained that the experience had changed his everyday priorities and given him additional motivation to continue improving as a player and person.
Werenski particularly enjoyed returning home after workouts and spending time watching Hudson develop.
He also expressed excitement about eventually sharing his hockey achievements and memories with his son.
His first Father’s Day in June 2026 came shortly after winning the Norris Trophy, making it an especially memorable occasion.
Hudson’s First Major Family Celebration
Hudson was only a few weeks old when his father received one of the NHL’s most prestigious individual awards.
On June 2, 2026, the league announced that Werenski had won the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the best defenseman for the 2025–26 season.
The NHL organized a surprise presentation at the family’s home in Michigan.
Zach’s wife Odette and his older brother Brad helped arrange the surprise.
Hudson was present alongside other relatives when the trophy was revealed.
Odette later explained that having photographs of Hudson with his father and the Norris Trophy would create special memories for their family.
Zach Werenski’s Parents
Zach Werenski was born to Ken Werenski and Kristen Werenski, who raised him and his older brother Brad in Grosse Pointe, Michigan.
Their identities are confirmed in official biographies published by Team USA and the University of Michigan.
Both parents encouraged their sons to participate in hockey during childhood, although neither had a professional hockey background.
Zach Werenski’s Father: Ken Werenski
Ken Werenski is Zach’s father and one of the most influential figures in his upbringing.
Ken built a career in public safety, serving his community through law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency medical services.
In 2019, the Columbus Blue Jackets identified him as a lieutenant with the Grosse Pointe Shores Department of Public Safety.
By February 2026, local reporting identified Ken as the department’s public safety director.
His work required discipline, responsibility, and a willingness to assist people during emergencies.
These qualities influenced Zach’s approach to both hockey and everyday life.
How Ken Werenski Influenced Zach’s Hockey Career
Ken helped introduce Zach and Brad to organized hockey when they were young.
In a 2014 interview with USA Hockey, Zach explained that his father had coached him during his early development.
Ken also encouraged Zach to try playing defense when one of his youth teams needed another defenseman.
The decision proved important because Zach ultimately developed into one of the NHL’s leading players at that position.
However, Ken did not pressure his son to pursue hockey professionally.
In an October 2019 interview with the Blue Jackets, Zach explained that his father emphasized the importance of enjoying whatever activity he chose.
Ken’s approach helped Zach maintain his enthusiasm for hockey as he progressed to higher levels of competition.
Ken Werenski’s Role as a Father and Public Safety Officer
Zach has often spoken about his admiration for his father’s dedication to public service.
In a 2016 Columbus Blue Jackets feature, he described Ken as an important role model.
He respected the responsibilities involved in working as a police officer, firefighter, and first responder.
Zach also credited his father with teaching him attention to detail, punctuality, and personal accountability.
The father-son relationship has remained strong throughout Werenski’s professional career.
In February 2026, Ken traveled to Italy with other family members to watch Zach represent the United States at the Winter Olympics.
He was present when the American men’s hockey team defeated Canada to win the gold medal.
Ken also attended the family’s Norris Trophy celebration later that year, embracing Zach after the award was revealed.
Zach Werenski’s Mother: Kristen Werenski
Kristen Werenski is Zach’s mother and another important figure in his personal and professional development.
She raised Zach and Brad alongside Ken in the Grosse Pointe area of Michigan.
Throughout Zach’s childhood, Kristen supported his participation in youth hockey and helped him manage the demands of competitive sports.
As his talent developed, she continued attending his games and supporting him through important transitions.
In May 2016, Werenski discussed his mother’s contributions during an interview with MiHockey.
He expressed gratitude for the sacrifices she had made to support his career.
At the time, he had recently begun his professional career with the Lake Erie Monsters of the American Hockey League.
Kristen and other relatives regularly traveled to attend his games.
Kristen Werenski’s Support Throughout Zach’s Career
Kristen remained an important source of encouragement as Zach progressed through USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program and the University of Michigan.
She also supported his transition to the NHL after the Columbus Blue Jackets selected him in the 2015 draft.
During the family’s June 2026 Norris Trophy celebration, Kristen was among the relatives surprised by the award presentation.
Her emotional reaction reflected the pride she felt after years of supporting her son’s development.
Although Kristen has appeared in hockey-related interviews and family coverage, reliable information about her occupation and other private details remains limited.
Zach Werenski’s Siblings
Zach Werenski has one publicly documented sibling, his older brother Brad Werenski.
Brad is approximately 20 months older than Zach.
The brothers grew up together in Grosse Pointe and developed a strong relationship through hockey.
Brad Werenski: Zach Werenski’s Older Brother
Brad Werenski is Zach’s older brother and the son of Ken and Kristen Werenski.
According to a February 2014 USA Hockey feature, Brad and Zach began skating and playing organized hockey together during childhood.
Although Brad initially lost interest in the sport, Zach’s enthusiasm encouraged him to return.
The brothers subsequently played together on several youth teams.
In a March 2024 interview with the Blue Jackets, Zach recalled that they remained teammates until their early teenage years.
They later played on different teams before briefly becoming teammates again when Zach was approximately 16.
Their shared hockey experiences helped strengthen their relationship.
Brad and Zach Werenski’s Relationship
The brothers have remained close throughout Zach’s professional career.
In 2018, Brad moved to Columbus and began living with Zach.
According to a 2019 Blue Jackets feature, the brothers enjoyed spending time together, playing hockey video games, and socializing with friends.
Even after Zach signed a new NHL contract and moved to a different residence, the brothers maintained their close relationship.
Brad also continued supporting Zach during major career milestones.
He traveled to Italy with family members for the 2026 Winter Olympics and helped organize Zach’s surprise Norris Trophy presentation.
Who Is Brad Werenski’s Wife?
Brad Werenski is married to Janie Werenski.
Their marriage was confirmed in a June 2026 NHL feature about Zach’s Norris Trophy celebration.
The same article reported that Brad and Janie had welcomed their second child, a daughter named Evelyn, shortly before the family celebration.
According to NHL reporting, Evelyn was born in May 2026.
Brad and Janie’s older child is also mentioned in family coverage, although the child’s name has not been reliably established in the sources reviewed.
This means Zach is an uncle as well as a father.
Does Zach Werenski Have a Sister?
There is no verified public information identifying a sister.
Official team interviews consistently identify Ken and Kristen as the parents of two sons, Zach and Brad.
Therefore, Brad is Zach’s only publicly confirmed sibling.
Zach Werenski’s Extended Family
Zach Werenski also maintains close relationships with his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and other extended family members.
In a March 2024 Blue Jackets interview, he discussed how much he enjoyed returning to the Detroit area to visit relatives.
During the NHL offseason, the family frequently gathers at Zach’s home in suburban Detroit.
In June 2026, NHL.com described regular Sunday family gatherings involving barbecues, swimming, basketball, and golf.
These occasions provide opportunities for relatives to spend time together despite Zach’s demanding NHL schedule.
Approximately 20 family members and friends traveled to Italy to support him during the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Their presence reflected the importance of family connections throughout his career.
Zach Werenski’s Childhood and Family Background
Zach Werenski grew up in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, near Detroit.
The area has a strong hockey tradition because of the Detroit Red Wings’ historic success in the NHL.
As a child, Werenski admired Red Wings defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom, who became one of his most important hockey inspirations.
He began skating at approximately three years old and playing organized hockey at four.
During childhood, Zach and Brad spent considerable time participating in youth hockey programs.
Zach subsequently played for the Little Caesars hockey organization before joining USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
His performances attracted interest from major college hockey programs.
He eventually chose the University of Michigan, where he became one of the team’s standout defensemen.
How Zach Werenski’s Family Supported His NHL Career
Werenski played two seasons of NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Michigan.
During the 2015–16 season, he received the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award and earned All-American recognition.
In the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, the Columbus Blue Jackets selected him in the first round, eighth overall.
After completing his college career, Werenski joined the Lake Erie Monsters of the American Hockey League.
He helped the team win the Calder Cup championship in 2016.
Werenski made his NHL debut with Columbus during the 2016–17 season and quickly established himself as an important defenseman.
He continued developing into one of the league’s leading players at his position.
During the 2024–25 campaign, he recorded 23 goals and 59 assists for 82 points, finishing second in the Norris Trophy voting.
He followed that performance with another outstanding season in 2025–26, recording 22 goals and 59 assists for 81 points.
On June 2, 2026, he became the first Columbus Blue Jackets player to win the James Norris Memorial Trophy.
He also represented the United States internationally, winning gold at the 2025 IIHF World Championship and the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Throughout these achievements, Werenski has repeatedly emphasized the importance of his wife, son, parents, brother, and extended family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zach Werenski’s Family
Who is Zach Werenski’s girlfriend?
Zach Werenski’s longtime girlfriend was Odette Peters. The couple married on July 26, 2025, and she is now known as Odette Werenski.
Is Zach Werenski married?
Yes. Zach Werenski is married to Odette Werenski. Their wedding took place in New Albany, Ohio, on July 26, 2025.
Who is Zach Werenski’s wife?
His wife is Odette Werenski, formerly Odette Peters. They grew up in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, and began dating during Zach’s early NHL career.
When did Zach Werenski get married?
Zach Werenski married Odette Peters on July 26, 2025, in New Albany, Ohio.
Does Zach Werenski have children?
Yes. Zach Werenski and his wife have one publicly confirmed child, a son named Hudson Charles Werenski.
Who is Zach Werenski’s son?
His son is Hudson Charles Werenski, who was born on May 6, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio.
Who are Zach Werenski’s parents?
Zach Werenski’s parents are Ken Werenski and Kristen Werenski. They raised him and his older brother in Grosse Pointe, Michigan.
Who is Zach Werenski’s father?
His father is Ken Werenski, a public safety professional who has worked in law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency medical services in Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan.
Who is Zach Werenski’s mother?
His mother is Kristen Werenski, who supported Zach’s hockey development throughout his childhood, college career, and transition to professional hockey.
Does Zach Werenski have siblings?
Yes. Zach Werenski has an older brother named Brad Werenski, who is approximately 20 months older than him.
Who is Brad Werenski?
Brad Werenski is Zach’s older brother. They grew up playing hockey together, and Brad helped organize Zach’s surprise Norris Trophy presentation in 2026.
Does Zach Werenski have a sister?
No sister has been publicly identified in reliable family biographies or official NHL interviews. His only publicly documented sibling is Brad.
Where is Zach Werenski’s family from?
The Werenski family comes from the Grosse Pointe area of Michigan, near Detroit. Many of Zach’s relatives continue living in the region.
Did Zach Werenski’s family attend the 2026 Winter Olympics?
Yes. Approximately 20 family members and friends traveled to Italy to support him, including his wife Odette, parents Ken and Kristen, and brother Brad.
What NHL team does Zach Werenski play for?
Zach Werenski plays for the Columbus Blue Jackets. The organization selected him eighth overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft.
A dedicated ice hockey journalist, Janet Asprin delivers sharp, detailed coverage of the NHL season. From evaluating trade deadline moves and line combinations to analyzing power plays and postseason standings, Janet brings a fresh, structured perspective to every game. She focuses on translating high-speed rink strategy into compelling stories and actionable insights for hockey fans.
