Awards and Recognitions of the Season
Canada's Own Natalie Spooner Shines with MVP and Forward of the Year Honors
In a season marked by triumphant comebacks and stellar performances, Toronto’s Natalie Spooner has been named the PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year. Spooner led the league in scoring, netting an incredible 20 goals and providing seven assists. Outperforming notable players such as New York's Alex Carpenter and Montreal's Marie-Philip Poulin, Spooner's efforts have certainly not gone unnoticed.
Remarkably, Spooner's achievements come just months after giving birth to her son at the end of 2022. Despite facing the unique challenges of motherhood, she defied all odds by not skating for six months leading up to the season. Her resilience was further tested as she suffered a knee injury during the playoff semifinals, yet she remained an indomitable force on the ice.
In her own words, Spooner expressed a mix of disbelief and gratitude. "I probably wouldn't have thought that it would have gone this way," she 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."
Coach of the Year: Troy Ryan's Winning Formula
Adding to Toronto's accolades, Troy Ryan has been named Coach of the Year. Under his strategic guidance, Toronto achieved a league-high of 47 points during the regular season. Ryan masterfully led his team through an impressive 11-game win streak, showcasing his ability to push the players to their peak performance levels.
Kristen Campbell Dominates the Net
Toronto’s successes were not confined to the offense alone. Kristen Campbell, named Goaltender of the Year, was a fortress between the posts. Campbell secured 16 wins and achieved three shutouts across the season, demonstrating her exceptional skill and consistency in goal. Her performances were integral to Toronto's formidable defense, making her a well-deserved recipient of this honor.
Defensive Prowess of Erin Ambrose
Montreal’s Erin Ambrose was named Defender of the Year, adding another feather to her cap. Ambrose accumulated an impressive 18 points over 24 games. Her defensive acumen and ability to contribute offensively made her a standout player for Montreal.
Grace Zumwinkle: Rookie Sensation
The future of the PWHL looks bright with Minnesota’s Grace Zumwinkle, who clinched the Rookie of the Year award. Zumwinkle recorded 19 points in 24 games, making an immediate impact in her debut season. Her impressive statistics reflect her potential to become one of the league's top players in the coming years.
Maureen Murphy's Off-Ice Contributions
Beyond the ice, Maureen Murphy earned the Hockey For All Award for her exceptional volunteer work. Murphy's dedication to community service and her efforts to promote inclusivity within the sport have set an inspiring example of how athletes can contribute positively to society beyond their athletic achievements.
Selection Committee's Role
The winners of these prestigious awards were chosen by an 18-member selection committee. Their task was no easy feat, given the array of talented athletes who competed this season. Their decisions reflect a balanced and thorough assessment of individual performances and contributions to the game.
The season's end brings with it recognition for these remarkable individuals who have not only excelled in their respective roles but have also inspired fans and teammates alike. As the PWHL continues to grow, the bar has been set high by these outstanding performances, promising even more excitement in the seasons to come.