Awards and Recognitions
Natalie Spooner Named PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year
In a triumphant return to professional hockey, Toronto's Natalie Spooner has been honored as the Premier Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) MVP and Forward of the Year. Spooner's performance over the season has been nothing short of remarkable, leading the league in scoring with 20 goals and seven assists. Her exceptional play has set her apart from other top players such as New York’s Alex Carpenter and Montreal’s Marie-Philip Poulin.
What makes Spooner's accomplishments even more impressive is her journey leading up to this season. She gave birth to her son at the end of 2022 and did not lace up her skates for six months before the season began. Despite these significant breaks from the game, Spooner returned with incredible fortitude and made an indelible impact on the ice. Even a knee injury suffered during the playoff semifinals didn't deter her performance.
Reflecting on her achievements, Spooner humbly admitted, "I probably wouldn't have thought that it would have gone this way. 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."
Troy Ryan Named Coach of the Year
The accolades for Toronto don't stop with Spooner's achievements. Troy Ryan, Toronto’s head coach, has been named Coach of the Year. Under Ryan’s guidance, Toronto secured a league-high of 47 points during the regular season and achieved an impressive 11-game winning streak. Ryan’s strategic expertise and leadership have been pivotal in Toronto’s success, making him a deserving recipient of this honor.
Kristen Campbell Named Goaltender of the Year
Adding to Toronto’s haul of awards, goaltender Kristen Campbell has been named Goaltender of the Year. Campbell's stellar performance in the net has been critical for Toronto’s dominant season. She recorded 16 wins and achieved three shutouts, underscoring her reliability and skill between the pipes.
Erin Ambrose and Grace Zumwinkle Recognized
Recognition for outstanding performance extends beyond Toronto. Montreal’s Erin Ambrose has been named Defender of the Year. Ambrose contributed significantly to her team’s efforts, accumulating 18 points over 24 games, showcasing her defensive prowess and playmaking abilities.
Meanwhile, Minnesota’s Grace Zumwinkle has been named Rookie of the Year. Zumwinkle's debut season was nothing short of spectacular as she recorded 19 points over 24 games, reflecting her immediate impact and bright future in the league.
Maureen Murphy Honored with Hockey For All Award
Off the ice, Maureen Murphy has received the Hockey For All Award for her exceptional volunteer work. Murphy’s contributions extend beyond her on-ice efforts, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the spirit of giving back. Her dedication to volunteering serves as an inspiration to many within and outside the hockey community.
Selection Process
The winners of these prestigious awards were chosen by an 18-member selection committee, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of each candidate's performance and contributions. The committee's decisions reflect the highest standards of excellence in women’s hockey.
In conclusion, the PWHL's latest season has been a showcase of extraordinary talent and remarkable stories. From Natalie Spooner’s awe-inspiring comeback to the strong leadership of Coach Troy Ryan, and the exceptional performances of players like Kristen Campbell, Erin Ambrose, and Grace Zumwinkle, the league continues to set new standards in professional women's hockey. As the league celebrates these outstanding achievements, it also highlights the importance of resilience, teamwork, and dedication—values that resonate both on and off the ice.