Awards and Recognitions
Toronto’s Natalie Spooner Named PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year
This season, the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) was captivated by the extraordinary performance of Toronto's Natalie Spooner. Spooner's incredible effort on the ice was recognized as she was named both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and the Forward of the Year. Not only did she lead the league in scoring with an impressive 20 goals and seven assists, but she also demonstrated unparalleled resilience and dedication.
Spooner's journey this season was nothing short of inspiring. After giving birth to her son at the end of 2022, Spooner took a six-month hiatus from skating. Her return to the game showcased not only her physical prowess but also her mental fortitude. Overcoming these challenges, she managed to outshine prominent players such as New York's Alex Carpenter and Montreal's Marie-Philip Poulin.
"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 remarkable season, however, took a toll. Spooner sustained a knee injury during the playoff semifinals, a testament to her relentless drive and commitment to her team and the sport.
Troy Ryan: Coach of the Year
Toronto’s success this season was not solely due to Spooner’s exceptional performance. Head Coach Troy Ryan was instrumental in leading the team to new heights, earning him the Coach of the Year honor. Under his guidance, Toronto achieved a league-high of 47 points during the regular season and enjoyed an 11-game win streak. Ryan's strategic acumen and leadership undeniably played a crucial role in the team's accomplishments.
Kristen Campbell: Goaltender of the Year
Another standout from Toronto was Kristen Campbell, who was named Goaltender of the Year. Campbell’s performance between the pipes was stellar, securing 16 wins and three shutouts. Her consistency and reliability in goal were vital in Toronto's impressive season.
Other Notable Recognitions
Recognition was not limited to Toronto alone. Montreal’s Erin Ambrose was named Defender of the Year, accumulating 18 points over 24 games. Her defensive skills and ability to contribute offensively made her an invaluable asset to her team.
In the rookie category, Minnesota's Grace Zumwinkle stood out, earning the Rookie of the Year award. Zumwinkle demonstrated remarkable aptitude and potential, recording 19 points in 24 games, promising a bright future in the league.
Maureen Murphy: Hockey For All Award
Awarded for exceptional volunteer work, the Hockey For All Award went to Maureen Murphy. Her selfless contributions off the ice underscore the importance of community involvement and the positive impact athletes can have beyond their professional careers.
Selection Process
The winners of these distinguished awards were chosen by an 18-member selection committee. This thorough and impartial process ensures that the most deserving players and contributors are recognized for their achievements and dedication to the sport.
The PWHL season has come to an end, but the legacies of those honored will continue to inspire players and fans alike. With individuals like Natalie Spooner, Troy Ryan, Kristen Campbell, Erin Ambrose, Grace Zumwinkle, and Maureen Murphy paving the way, the future of women's hockey looks brighter than ever.