Sandra is originally from the old West Texas town of El Paso. Sandra attended High School and College in Texas prior to moving up north when she was drafted to play hockey. She met her husband and fell in love with him as a freshman in college; they married after 8 months of dating. One of their mutual interests is hockey. The origin of her first son's name Brendan Nathaniel comes from the Redwing's Brendan Shannahan. Her second son's name Shjon Christian, is also 'hockey" originated; and the third son is on the way. Sandra and her husband are both looking forward to the upcoming hockey season for some name ideas. Soon, the five of them will begin building a legendary team of their own.

When she's not playing on the U.S. Women's Hockey Team, Sandra enjoys spending time at home with her family, and also renovating their 1860 home. Sandra and her husband are ministers for their church and enjoy involvement within the parish.

One of Sandra's proudest accomplishments has been the retention of all her teeth. Though the same can't be said for the opposition.

Her other hobbies include bike riding, water skiing, kickboxing, and crafts.