Girls’ Hockey before a game at the 2023 Northwood Invitational. Photo: Mr. Michael Aldridge.
Girls’ hockey went 3-2 at the prestigious Stoney Creek Showcase in Ontario September 15-17.
Their first of two games on Friday was against Durham West U22, a top-ranked team in Canada. The Huskies fell 4-1, but a highlight was Anna Monette ‘26 scoring her first Northwood goal. Later that day, they topped Toronto Aero’s U22, and goalie Jersey Graham ‘24 got a shoutout.
Saturday, the Huskies played two more games and won both, including a 6-0 win against North Shore, where Graham earned her second shutout of the weekend.
On Sunday, the squad found themselves in the semi-finals of their bracket but fell to the Burlington Barracudas U22, a strong team with top prospects from all of Canada.
“We just need to play with a lot more dedication and not doubt ourselves when we play against some of the best teams because we have a strong team, and the competition is only going to get better,” forward Brac Kelley ’24 said after the game. “There are many positives to take away from the weekend. We had a strong week of practice. Girls were battling and competing. It is something that is going to fuel us for the rest of the year.” Kelley added.
The players gave new Coach Hanna Rose ’18 high praise, saying she is making a big impact on the girls’ hockey team this year. “Having a female figure as an assistant coach makes our team that much stronger. She always has the most energy, and it is contagious,” Kelley said. “The first time our team met her was at our summer tournament, and right from the start she was eager to get started.” Added Kelley.
Girls’ hockey travel has a strenuous travel schedule, and it’s always challenging to stay on top of academics. On the road, the Huskies have study halls in a hotel lobby or on the charter bus.
“Coach Rosie” is not only a hockey coach, but she is an excellent math teacher. “Being on the road with the girls and this past weekend, I think I got 50 [math] questions, and it was so awesome to see the lightbulb moment for the girls when they understood it. It has taken off so much stress, and I am just so happy to help,” Rose said.
Girls’ hockey travel to Exeter, NH this weekend to play in a 4-game showcase.
