Awards and Recognitions
Toronto's Natalie Spooner Named PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year
In a season of compelling narratives, Toronto's Natalie Spooner has emerged as the standout star of the Premier Hockey Federation. Spooner was named both MVP and Forward of the Year, a testament to her undeniable skill and resilience in the face of numerous challenges.
Spooner led the league in scoring, netting 20 goals and adding seven assists. Her impressive performance on the ice allowed her to outperform noted competitors such as New York's Alex Carpenter and Montreal's Marie-Philip Poulin. Remarkably, Spooner accomplished this just months after giving birth to her son at the end of 2022.
An Unlikely Comeback
Notably, Spooner did not skate for six months leading up to the season. She admitted, "I probably wouldn't have thought that it would have gone this way." Her hiatus from the rink makes her season's achievements even more astounding, particularly given she also suffered a knee injury during the playoff semifinals. Despite this setback, Spooner's tenacity and dedication to the sport saw her through to a highly successful season.
Spooner expressed immense gratitude for her return: "I think I was just super grateful to be playing again, to be back on the team." Her humility and team spirit have inspired both teammates and fans alike. "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," she added.
Toronto's Coach of the Year: Troy Ryan
Toronto's success this season was not solely attributed to Spooner's incredible performance. Head coach Troy Ryan was deservedly named Coach of the Year. Under his guidance, Toronto achieved a league-high of 47 points during the regular season and recorded an impressive 11-game win streak. Ryan's leadership and strategic acumen have been pivotal in Toronto's climb to the top.
Top Players in Other Categories
Other standout players were also recognized for their contributions during the season. Toronto’s Kristen Campbell was named Goaltender of the Year. Campbell achieved 16 wins and posted three shutouts, securing her reputation as one of the league's top goaltenders.
Montreal's Erin Ambrose was honored with the Defender of the Year award. Ambrose was a consistent presence on the ice, accumulating 18 points over 24 games. Her defensive prowess has certainly not gone unnoticed.
Minnesota’s Grace Zumwinkle received the Rookie of the Year accolade, having recorded 19 points in 24 games. Zumwinkle’s impressive debut season promises a bright future ahead in her professional hockey career.
Maureen Murphy Earns Hockey For All Award
Beyond the rink, Maureen Murphy was celebrated with the Hockey For All Award for her exceptional volunteer work. Murphy’s contributions off the ice have had a meaningful impact, fostering a sense of community and inclusiveness within the sport.
Selection Process
The awards were determined by an 18-member selection committee, underscoring the rigorous process behind recognizing the league's top talents. Each award serves to highlight the players' hard work, dedication, and exceptional performance throughout the season.
This year’s Premier Hockey Federation season has been one of remarkable achievements and heartwarming comebacks. With players like Natalie Spooner continuing to elevate the game, and with inspirational figures like Maureen Murphy promoting inclusivity, the future of women’s hockey looks brighter than ever.