Université Laval is set to launch a new U SPORTS women's hockey program under the nickname the Rouge et Or, marking the school's first varsity‑level women's hockey team.
The team will compete in the RSEQ league, the same circuit that recently welcomed national champions such as Montreal, Bishop's and Concordia, positioning the Rouge et Or among the country's top university programs.
A historic roster unveiled
The roster was announced this week, showcasing a deep pool of talent between the pipes and on the forward lines. In goal, Ericka Gagnon, who helped Bishop's capture a national title in 2024‑25, will be joined by Léa‑Maude Durand, adding experience and depth.
Among the forwards are Isabella Llewellyn Jollie, a former France U‑18 standout, alongside Andréanne St‑Pierre, Daphnée Bélair‑Teasdale, Magalie Harpin, Talia Jones, Sandrine Larouche, Victoria Veilleux, Annabelle Fontaine, Quinn Carswell and Marie‑Pierre Cossette, each bringing a unique skill set to the lineup.
The defensive corps features Élaine Michaud, a three‑year veteran from Bishop's who also contributed to a national championship in 2024‑25, as well as Geneviève Bisson, Lorie Van Winden, Naomie Piché, Magali Bordeleau, Élodie Gervais, Marilou Boilard and Amélia Léonard, rounding out a balanced blue line.
The Rouge et Or will open its schedule with an exhibition game on September 11, followed by a regular‑season debut on October 16 against the reigning U SPORTS national champions from Montreal, a matchup that promises high‑stakes competition right out of the gate.
Beyond the on‑ice talent, the program reflects Université Laval's broader commitment to expanding women's sports, leveraging partnerships with institutions such as Bishop's University and drawing on the rich hockey heritage of Quebec.