Awards and Recognitions
Toronto’s Natalie Spooner Named PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year
The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) celebrated its finest as Toronto’s own Natalie Spooner was awarded both MVP and Forward of the Year. Dominating the league in scoring with an impressive 20 goals and seven assists, Spooner showcased exceptional skill and tenacity on the ice.
Spooner outshone her competitors, New York's Alex Carpenter and Montreal's Marie-Philip Poulin, to secure these prestigious awards. Remarkably, Spooner managed these feats despite giving birth to her son at the end of 2022. Following six months away from the ice, she returned with a resolve and drive that proved unstoppable.
Spooner’s journey this season wasn’t without its challenges. She suffered a knee injury during the playoff semifinals, putting an exclamation mark on what was already a physically demanding season. Nevertheless, her contributions were pivotal in shaping Toronto’s success, cementing her legacy in the league.
Toronto’s Stellar Season
Toronto's outstanding season featured several key players and personnel, leading them to achieve a league-high of 47 points during the regular season. Central to this success was Coach of the Year, Troy Ryan. Under his leadership, Toronto managed to string together an 11-game win streak, demonstrating consistency and resilience.
In goal, Kristen Campbell was a fortress, securing the Goaltender of the Year title. Campbell's performance included 16 wins and three shutouts, making her an invaluable asset to Toronto's formidable lineup.
Individual Brilliance Across the League
Montreal’s Erin Ambrose was named Defender of the Year, having accumulated 18 points over 24 games. Her standout defensive skills were a crucial part of Montreal’s campaign, providing stability and leadership from the back.
Minnesota's Grace Zumwinkle emerged as the brightest new talent, taking home the Rookie of the Year honor. Zumwinkle’s impressive debut saw her record 19 points in 24 games, signalling the arrival of a new star in the PWHL.
Honoring Community Spirit
The Hockey For All Award was given to Maureen Murphy for her outstanding volunteer work. This award recognizes players who make significant contributions off the ice, and Murphy's dedication to giving back to the community serves as an inspiration to all.
The Selection Process
The winners of these esteemed awards were chosen by an 18-member selection committee comprised of experts and representatives from across the league. Their rigorous evaluation ensures that only the most deserving candidates are honored for their exceptional contributions to the sport.
Quotes from the MVP
Natalie Spooner reflected on her milestone season with humility and gratitude. "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."
Her words capture the essence of her journey—overcoming personal and professional hurdles to emerge as a leading figure in women's hockey. Spooner's story is a testament to her resilience, skill, and love for the game, cementing her status as an inspirational figure in the sport.