Awards and Recognitions
Toronto’s Natalie Spooner Named PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year
Toronto’s Natalie Spooner has been named the Premier Hockey Federation Women's League (PWHL) MVP and Forward of the Year. Spooner led the league in scoring with an impressive tally of 20 goals and seven assists, showcasing her exceptional talent and determination throughout the season.
Spooner outperformed some of the league’s top players, including New York's Alex Carpenter and Montreal's Marie-Philip Poulin, making her recognition a testament to her incredible performance. Remarkably, Spooner returned to the ice following a significant life event; she gave birth to her son at the end of 2022 and did not skate for six months leading up to the season.
"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."
During the playoff semifinals, Spooner suffered a knee injury, adding another layer to her story of perseverance and resilience. Her accolades this season have solidified her status as one of the premier talents in the league.
Toronto's Coach of the Year: Troy Ryan
Toronto’s success this season extended beyond individual achievements. Troy Ryan was named Coach of the Year after leading his team to a league-high of 47 points during the regular season. Ryan guided Toronto through an 11-game win streak, demonstrating his strategic acumen and leadership prowess.
Ryan’s coaching methodology has not only fostered a winning environment but also contributed significantly to the development and success of his players. Toronto’s dominance this season is a direct reflection of Ryan's effective coaching and the team’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
Goaltender of the Year: Kristen Campbell
Kristen Campbell was another standout player for Toronto, earning the title of Goaltender of the Year. Campbell’s performance between the pipes was nothing short of exceptional, achieving 16 wins and three shutouts. Her consistency and reliability in goal have been pivotal to Toronto’s successful campaign this season.
Defender of the Year: Erin Ambrose
Montreal’s Erin Ambrose received the Defender of the Year honor. Ambrose accumulated 18 points over the course of 24 games, showcasing her defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively. Ambrose has been a cornerstone of Montreal’s defense, blending skill and intelligence to impact the game on both ends of the ice.
Rookie of the Year: Grace Zumwinkle
Minnesota’s Grace Zumwinkle was named Rookie of the Year after recording 19 points in 24 games. Zumwinkle’s debut season was marked by her impactful presence on the ice and her ability to compete at such a high level. Her emergence as one of the league’s promising young talents bodes well for the future of her career and the league itself.
Hockey For All Award: Maureen Murphy
Maureen Murphy earned the Hockey For All Award for her exceptional volunteer work. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to making hockey more inclusive and accessible to all. Murphy’s dedication to her community and her efforts to grow the game are truly commendable.
Selection Committee and Final Thoughts
The winners of these prestigious awards were chosen by an 18-member selection committee, ensuring a comprehensive and fair evaluation of each candidate’s contributions and achievements this season.
The PWHL has seen some extraordinary performances and compelling stories this year. From Natalie Spooner’s remarkable return to form to the impressive coaching of Troy Ryan, the league continues to produce top-tier talent and unforgettable moments. As the league grows and evolves, the recognition of these individuals highlights the exceptional quality and commitment present in women’s hockey today.
Congratulations to all the award winners for their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship. Their achievements not only elevate their teams but also inspire future generations of hockey players and fans alike.