The Montreal Victoire recently organized a four-day youth hockey clinic at the Dollard-des-Ormeaux Civic Centre in the western part of Montreal. Almost 90 girls aged between eight and 15 participated in the clinic to enhance their skills and learn from professional players.
During the event, some of the young athletes shared their hockey ambitions and the significance of being coached by their idols. For the Victoire players, being part of the camp was a nostalgic experience as they reflected on their own beginnings in the sport and expressed their desire for more opportunities at the grassroots level.
One of the participants, 11-year-old Navarana Gadbois, described the camp as a fun way to improve her skills, reminiscing about starting to skate at the age of four after watching her father play hockey. She expressed her dreams of playing at higher levels in the future, including potentially joining the Victoire or playing in the PWHL.
Elizabeth Tousignante, a 10-year-old attendee, shared her excitement about meeting the players and her passion for hockey. She expressed her desire to play for the Montreal Victoire and continue playing the sport for as long as possible.
Alexandra Labelle, a forward for the Victoire, emphasized the importance of sharing her passion for the game with young players and being a role model for them. She highlighted the progress made in providing dedicated hockey camps for girls and stressed the need for inclusivity in the sport.
Kori Cheverie, the head coach of the Victoire, discussed the evolution of the game and emphasized the importance of creating equal opportunities for all genders in hockey. She acknowledged the improvements made but emphasized the ongoing work needed to further develop and promote the sport.
Overall, the event was a platform for aspiring young hockey players to learn from professionals, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the growth of women’s hockey at various levels.
