On May 25, 2026, the Montreal Victoire captured the PWHL Walter Cup, delivering a victory that resonated far beyond the ice. The championship night saw the team’s seven openly queer athletes celebrated alongside a crowd that recognized the historic significance of the moment.
A historic victory
What made the triumph especially poignant was the presence of two married teammates, Marie‑Philippe Poulin and Laura Stacey, who together lifted the trophy for the first time, their arms intertwined as the arena erupted in cheers. Poulin, who has been with the Montreal Victoire since the league’s inception, was named playoff MVP and sealed the win with the championship‑winning goal, a snapshot that will be replayed in highlight reels for years to come. Stacey, one of the three foundational players drafted by the Victoire, shared the moment with her spouse, marking a personal and professional milestone.
The Victoire’s roster reads like a tapestry of diversity: seven queer athletes, including Amanda Boulier, Jade Downie‑Landry, Shiann Darkangelo and Erin Ambrose, each bringing a unique story to the ice. Boulier captured her first Walter Cup with the team in 2026, Ambrose secured the cup in her inaugural season with the club, and Downie‑Landry earned a ring despite being sidelined by injury, while Darkangelo was part of the championship side that defeated the Ottawa Charge.
Inclusivity at the core
The league’s inclusive ethos is reflected in its history: three Walter Cup finals have been won by teams that feature a total of ten lesbian and sapphic players who have stood on the podium. Earlier championships by the Minnesota Frost, where Emma Greco, Michela Cava, Liz Schepers and Erin Ambrose each tasted victory, illustrate a competitive landscape that rewards talent and authenticity alike. Cava and Schepers each boast two championship rings, underscoring the depth of talent across the league.
Beyond the ice, the victory signals a broader cultural shift, as the PWHL continues to serve as a beacon for LGBTQ+ representation in professional sports. With each cup lifted, the league not only celebrates athletic excellence but also paves the way for future generations of queer athletes who see themselves reflected in the game.