Montreal Victoire captured the Professional Women’s Hockey League championship in spectacular fashion, defeating the Ottawa Charge 4-0 in the final match.
At the heart of the victory was Abby Roque, an Anishinaabe athlete from Wahnapitae First Nation, who contributed two early goals and helped steer the team to a dominant performance.
Indigenous Excellence on the Ice
Roque’s journey to the summit began with a trade from the New York Sirens over a year ago, a move that gave her the platform to showcase her skill and leadership in a league that has rapidly expanded its profile.
Her teammate Jocelyne Larocque, a Red River Metis star and the most decorated Indigenous winter Olympian, has long been a role model for young players across North America, embodying perseverance and excellence.
The win marks the first time a Canadian franchise has lifted the league’s trophy, a milestone that underscores the growing competitiveness of teams north of the border.
Roque praised the resilience of her squad and the unwavering support from family, friends, and fans, noting that the championship was as much a communal triumph as a personal one.
The victory also shines a light on the broader representation of Indigenous peoples in professional sports, highlighting pathways for future generations.