Awards and Recognitions
Toronto’s Natalie Spooner Named PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year
In an exceptional display of athletic prowess and determination, Toronto's Natalie Spooner has been honored as the Premier Women's Hockey League (PWHL) MVP and Forward of the Year. Leading the league in scoring, Spooner netted an impressive 20 goals and added seven assists to her tally. Her performance on the ice not only bolstered her team's success but also set her apart from her peers, outperforming New York's Alex Carpenter and Montreal's Marie-Philip Poulin.
Spooner's journey to the top was anything but easy. She gave birth to her son at the end of 2022 and did not skate for six months leading up to the season. Despite these challenges, Spooner demonstrated resilience and adaptability, making a triumphant return to professional hockey.
Her determination was further tested during the playoff semifinals when she suffered a knee injury. Yet, her earlier contributions had already established her as a pivotal figure in Toronto's successful campaign.
Coach of the Year: Troy Ryan
Troy Ryan was instrumental in Toronto's remarkable season, earning the title of Coach of the Year. Under his leadership, Toronto achieved a league-high of 47 points during the regular season and embarked on an impressive 11-game win streak. Ryan's strategic prowess and ability to inspire his team were evident in every game, making him a well-deserving recipient of this accolade.
Goaltender of the Year: Kristen Campbell
Toronto's Kristen Campbell stood out as the league's most formidable netminder, earning the Goaltender of the Year award. Campbell's performance between the pipes was nothing short of stellar, securing 16 wins and three shutouts. Her consistency and reliability provided a solid foundation for Toronto's defensive strategies.
Defender of the Year: Erin Ambrose
From Montreal, Erin Ambrose was named Defender of the Year. Ambrose accumulated 18 points over 24 games, showcasing not just her defensive capabilities but also her offensive contributions. Her balanced play and leadership on the ice were crucial to Montreal's overall performance in the league.
Rookie of the Year: Grace Zumwinkle
Minnesota's Grace Zumwinkle made an immediate impact in her debut season, earning her the Rookie of the Year honor. With 19 points in 24 games, Zumwinkle's performance highlighted her as a promising talent and a future star in the league.
Hockey For All Award: Maureen Murphy
Maureen Murphy received the Hockey For All Award, an accolade recognizing her exceptional volunteer work. Murphy's contributions off the ice have made a significant difference, embodying the spirit of community and the importance of giving back. Her dedication to volunteerism sets a commendable example for others within the hockey community.
Selection Process
The winners of these prestigious awards were chosen by an 18-member selection committee. This diverse group of individuals brought their expertise and insights to the table, ensuring that the most deserving athletes were recognized for their exceptional achievements.
Quotes from Natalie Spooner
Reflecting on her remarkable season, Natalie Spooner expressed her surprise and gratitude for the accolades she received. "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."
She continued, "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."
Natalie Spooner's journey, resilience, and outstanding performance underscore the spirit of hockey and serve as an inspiration to many. Her accolades, along with those of her fellow award recipients, mark a memorable season in the PWHL, celebrating the talents and dedication of the league's finest athletes.