A Roster Built for Contention
The Ottawa Charge are gearing up for the upcoming summer season with a roster that is nearly complete, despite the departure of key stars such as Brianne Jenner and Emily Clark. The organization has managed to keep its core intact, ensuring continuity heading into the new campaign.
In net, the team boasts all three of its goaltenders from the previous year — Gwyneth Philips, Sanni Ahola and Kendra Woodland — providing a stable foundation between the pipes. Philips is expected to shoulder the bulk of the workload, while Ahola and Woodland will continue to develop as the third‑string option.
The defensive core returns largely unchanged, with six blueliners from last season back in the fold. Leading the group are veterans Ronja Savolainen and Jocelyne Larocque, whose experience should help anchor the blue line. Their presence also offers mentorship to younger defensemen such as Emma Greco and Kathryn Reilly.
Up front, the Charge have added depth through both the draft and free agency. New faces like Vivian Jungels and Tory Mariano will battle for spots, while unsigned forwards Jordan Ray, Tereza Pištěková and Taylor Otremba remain on the radar. The forward group also includes eight contracted players, among them Rebecca Leslie, Brooke McQuigge, Kateřina Mrázová, Michela Cava, Gabbie Hughes, Fanuza Kadirova and Sarah Wozniewicz. Recent acquisitions Jenna Buglioni and Dara Greig are expected to bring additional scoring punch.
Behind the bench, the front office remains stable, with head coach Carla MacLeod set to return alongside general manager Mike Hirshfeld. Their continuity could prove vital as the team looks to translate a solid roster into on‑ice success. While the Charge aim to contend for the Walter Cup, they know the competition will be fierce, but the pieces are in place for a serious playoff push.