Awards and Recognitions
Natalie Spooner Shines as PWHL MVP and Forward of the Year
Toronto’s Natalie Spooner has been named the MVP and Forward of the Year in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL). Spooner led the league in scoring with an impressive tally of 20 goals and seven assists. Her performance exceeded that of notable competitors such as New York’s Alex Carpenter and Montreal’s Marie-Philip Poulin.
The achievements are even more remarkable considering Spooner gave birth to her son at the end of 2022 and did not skate for six months leading up to the season. Despite these challenges, Spooner demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill, further cementing her place among the league's elite.
"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 outstanding season was marred by a knee injury during the playoff semifinals, overshadowing an otherwise stellar year. Nonetheless, Spooner’s contributions were pivotal to Toronto’s success.
Troy Ryan Named Coach of the Year
Ensuring that Toronto stayed at the top, Coach Troy Ryan was named Coach of the Year. Under Ryan's leadership, Toronto achieved a league-high 47 points during the regular season and enjoyed an 11-game win streak. His strategic acumen and motivational skills played a crucial role in the team’s overall performance.
Kristen Campbell: Goaltender of the Year
Toronto’s Kristen Campbell took home the Goaltender of the Year award, thanks to her formidable presence in the net. Campbell achieved 16 wins and three shutouts, showcasing her reliability and skill as a key defensive asset for the team.
Erin Ambrose and Grace Zumwinkle Take Home Honors
Montreal's Erin Ambrose was named Defender of the Year. With 18 points over 24 games, Ambrose demonstrated her exceptional defensive capabilities, ensuring her position as a critical player for Montreal.
Minnesota’s Grace Zumwinkle earned the accolade of Rookie of the Year, making a significant impact in her debut season. Posting 19 points in 24 games, Zumwinkle's impressive start signals a promising career ahead.
Maureen Murphy: Hockey For All Award
Maureen Murphy received the Hockey For All Award for her exceptional volunteer work. The award recognizes individuals who contribute significantly to promoting inclusivity and community service in the world of hockey.
The winners of these prestigious awards were chosen by an 18-member selection committee, ensuring that a diverse range of expertise and perspectives informed the final decisions.