Strength of women's hockey evident at nationals
By Stephanie Webster
The two 12 clash Linda Chasse of Quebec and Mary MacDonald of the Atlantic scramble for the puck.
Photo: Pte Samantha Crowe |
The demand for women's hockey in the CF is booming and the calibre of play is mounting. Over the last few years, CF women have experienced unprecedented training camps and team try-outs across the nation. Last year alone, about 315 women participated in CF hockey programs.
The tactical strength and tremendous skill of women's hockey was evident at the CF Nationals, which were showcased in Borden from March 4 to 10. After round-robin play, Quebec was in second place, but they were at the top of their game to defeat the Atlantic Region 3-1 in the final, taking the championship title.
Quebec defense 2Lt Courtney Douglass, was the tournament's MVP.
With the top 20 players from each region at the nationals, there was an increased sense of professionalism when these women took to the ice. Most of the games were very close in score, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats and anxious to see what teams would end up in the final.
MCpl Paul Murphy, coach of the Atlantic Region team, and the Dedication to CF Sports award recipient, described the tournament: "There is such parity at the nationals now and any team can win any given game and nobody is to be counted out. This was the first time after round-robin play that Team Atlantic was seen as the favourite to win, but the games have to be played on the ice and Quebec had a strong first period scoring three goals…"
As the CFPSA National Sports Coordinator, Mike Doucet had the opportunity to watch every game. "There were several items that deserved recognition including the calibre of play, which was nothing short of exceptional," he said.
Team Quebec celebrates their hard earned victory at the Women's Nationals in Borden Ontario.
Photo: Pte Samantha Crowe |
Giving full credit to the athletes, coaches, officials, jury of appeal, athletic trainers, and the host committee in Borden, Doucet recognized the devotion of PSP staff and CF members to the CF Women's Hockey Program, noting, "Everyone displayed an outstanding level of commitment and organization that was second to none."
The five National Sport Regions - Atlantic, Ontario, Prairie, Quebec, and Pacific - compete at CF National Championships. For more information and rules on the National Sports Program visit www.cfpsa.com. For information on women's hockey in your region visit the Personnel Support Programs (PSP) office nearest you.
The CF Women's Hockey Championship is one of thirteen national sports championships organized by the Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency.