SEASON PREVIEW: Panthers look to take next step in pursuit of AUS title
No one knew what to expect from the 2022–23 UPEI Women’s Hockey squad—and no one more so than new head coach Sean Fisher, who inherited a young roster eager to prove themselves. The uncertainty surrounding the team quickly shifted to excitement, as they won four of their first five games, paving the way to one of the best seasons (17-9-2 record) in program history.
Having tasted that success, the 2023–24 edition of the UPEI Women’s Hockey Panthers want more and are eyeing the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) banner.
“Our group just needs to continue to take little steps forward together. We have 21 players returning from last year’s team, so there’s a nice core and foundation to work with,” said Fisher.
In fact, the Panthers who are returning scored more than 70 per cent of the goals scored last season. Third-year forward and all-star McKinley Nelson is coming off a breakout season in which she erupted for 16 goals and 24 points (both team highs) and is expected to lead the charge once again. Fourth-year forward and captain Lexie Murphy is the perfect commander for this young team, as she leads by example as one of the league’s best two-way players and the AUS’s reigning top defensive player.
Fisher said he anticipates sophomores Carly Thompson, Chloe McCabe, and Kierra St. Peter having more significant roles this season and add to the team’s offensive production. Third-year forwards Ruby Loughton, Ashley McCutcheon, and Chiara Esposito are also reliable scorers and could see their numbers rise.
“I see goals coming from lots of people in our lineup and expect it will be scoring by committee,” Fisher added.
Sophomore defender Orianna MacNeil looks to build off a remarkable season, where the former walk-on took the league by storm, earning Rookie of the Year and all-star honours in her debut season. She’ll patrol the blue line with assistant captains Avery Penner and Stephanie Leger, as well as Elizabeth Beiersdorfer, Rachel Richards, and Emily Holmes. Rookies Sarah Fraser and Anjali Simms have impressed in training camp and could factor in a big way.
Last season, the Panthers finished in the middle of the pack when it came to goals allowed and point differential, so Fisher is emphasizing goal prevention this year.
“If the group commits to improving our team defence, then we’ll be competitive in the AUS, so I’m stressing that this year.”
MacNeil says she’s certain this year’s group can take that leap forward.
“We’ve been gelling on and off the ice, and have a great addition of new girls to help our core,” she said. “I think there’s definitely a lot to look forward to and as the season progresses, we’ll only get better and hopefully succeed in our goal production and prevention.”
The goaltending position may be the most compelling storyline to follow with this roster, as they have four capable netminders vying for playing time.
Sarah Forsythe figures to get the opening-day start between the pipes after emerging as the team’s primary goalie in 2022–23, posting a 10-8 record with a 2.36-goals-against average and a .909 save percentage. Veteran goalie Shaylin McFarlane has the most experience of the four, while prized rookie Erin Cabaday and sophomore Anya Epp will give Fisher more options to consider.
With so much continuity on the roster, the foundation for a successful program this season is solid. Now, it will be about Fisher guiding the team toward the top of the standings.
“I think our greatest strength is the depth and balance of our roster. Each night we’re going to have 18 skaters and two capable goaltenders who can play AUS hockey at a high level,” Fisher added. “I’m confident we will have a balanced lineup with contributions on both sides of the puck from everyone who’s dressed on any given night.”
The UPEI Women’s Hockey Panthers will face off against the Université de Moncton Aigles Bleues at their season home opener on Wednesday, October 4 at 7:00 pm, on campus at MacLauchlan Arena. Buy your UPEI Women’s Hockey Season Pass or game tickets at panthertickets.ca.
