Awards and Recognitions
It has been a remarkable season for the Premier Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), marked by outstanding individual and team performances. Recognitions and accolades were recently handed out to honor the achievements of these exceptional athletes and coaches. Here’s a closer look at the notable figures who have been celebrated this season.
Natalie Spooner: MVP and Forward of the Year
Toronto’s Natalie Spooner has been named both PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year, a testament to her stellar performance on the ice. Spooner led the league in scoring, netting 20 goals and earning seven assists.
What makes Spooner's achievement all the more impressive is her journey leading up to the season. After giving birth to her son at the end of 2022, Spooner did not skate for six months. Despite this lengthy hiatus, she not only returned in top form but also outperformed other top-tier players, including New York's Alex Carpenter and Montreal's Marie-Philip Poulin.
Unfortunately, her season hit a bump when she suffered a knee injury during the playoff semifinals. Nevertheless, her determination and skill were enough to secure her the top individual honors this season.
"I probably wouldn't have thought that it would have gone this way," Spooner admitted. "I think I was just super grateful to be playing again, to be back on the team. I was just really excited to get back out there with the girls, but I never thought that I'd be able to have, I guess, as big of an impact as I was able to have with the team."
Toronto’s Success Under Troy Ryan
The city of Toronto has more to celebrate than just Spooner’s individual accolades. Troy Ryan, the team's head coach, was named Coach of the Year. Ryan's strategic acumen and leadership led Toronto to achieve a league-high of 47 points during the regular season. Under his guidance, the team also enjoyed an 11-game winning streak, showcasing their dominance throughout the season.
Defensive and Goaltending Excellence
Kristen Campbell of Toronto was named Goaltender of the Year. Campbell’s performance between the pipes was nothing short of spectacular, as she achieved 16 wins and three shutouts over the season. Her reliable presence in goal has been a cornerstone for Toronto’s success.
On the defensive front, Montreal’s Erin Ambrose was recognized as Defender of the Year. Ambrose's exceptional defensive play and her ability to contribute offensively were evident as she accumulated 18 points over 24 games. Her performance has been integral to Montreal's strong defensive record this season.
Rookie of the Year: Grace Zumwinkle
Minnesota’s Grace Zumwinkle made a significant impact in her debut season, earning her the Rookie of the Year award. Zumwinkle recorded 19 points in 24 games, demonstrating her potential and setting a strong foundation for what promises to be a bright future in the league.
Hockey For All Award
Maureen Murphy was honored with the Hockey For All Award, which recognizes exceptional volunteer work. Murphy's dedication to promoting inclusivity and her volunteer efforts have made a meaningful impact on the community, embodying the spirit of this prestigious award.
A Season to Remember
The winners were chosen by an 18-member selection committee, ensuring a thorough and fair evaluation process.
The 2022-2023 season has been a memorable one for the PWHL. From Natalie Spooner’s remarkable comeback and record-setting performances, to stellar coaching, goaltending, and the emergence of new talent, the league has much to celebrate as it looks ahead to future seasons. The recognized athletes and coaches have not only showcased extraordinary skill but have also inspired countless fans and budding athletes. As the PWHL grows, the standards set this season will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for excellence in women’s hockey.