Ice rinks become canvases for a remarkable story of triumph, unity, and relentless effort. Meet Vayda Rigaux, Chloe Minkus, and Lainey Rigaux, dynamic players on the Glenlawn Lions Girls hockey team, as they share their journey alongside the guiding hand of Coach Brad Nechwediuk. 

The echoes of laughter and camaraderie resonate through the team, creating an atmosphere where everyone is not just teammates but friends.  

“Being friends on and off the ice has allowed us to build trust and familiarity with each other,” said Vayda Rigaux, Defence.  

Friendships cultivated off the ice blossom into a trust that translates seamlessly on it. “We are able to know each other’s tendencies and how they play,” said Vayda. “We trust each other enough to make good plays and pass to each other.” 

Strategies used during power plays and penalty kills became the team's secret weapons, finely tuned through dedicated practice sessions.  

“More than one player I’ve noticed has become much more aggressive by blocking shots, battling for pucks, chipping it by the defence, etc.,” said Vayda. “Overall, their aggressiveness has helped our team make crucial plays.” 

The coaching staff's adaptability and the players' mutual support create an environment of continuous improvement.  

“Coaches are able to change the drills to suit the needs of the players, and we are all able to help each other get better and give each other advice,” said Vayda. 

The Glenlawn Lions have won 11 of their 13 games so far this season.  

“Our team dynamic is hardworking,” said Chloe Minkus, Forward. “We complement each other's strengths, which makes us a winning team.”  

The team's journey is marked by continuous improvement, with each player contributing uniquely to the collective success. 

"We can compete at all ends of the ice, but our biggest impact is our passing and breakouts," said Chloe. 

The influence of effective leadership gives the team a narrative of positivity, inspiring them by having a positive mindset and ensuring everyone works toward their goals.  

"Our final goal is winning the league championship, and that motivates us to maintain this momentum year after year," said Chloe. 

Approaching every game with confidence in their game plan, the team's leadership extends beyond official titles. 

"All of our girls show leadership in the room and give input and positivity when needed," said Lainey Rigaux, Forward. 

The team approaches challenges with a strategic mindset.  

“Our team is going to keep growing, learning, and playing our game like we know we can and making every shift count because, at the end of the day, that’s all we can do,” said Lainey.   

The team's improvement is palpable. 

“Practice is a time to try new things and get better,” said Lainey. "Our coaches show care in our development process and help the players learn and be even better than they are." 

Behind the bench stands Coach Brad Nechwediuk, a guiding force shaping skilled players and a cohesive team. 

"Our resilience in overcoming adversity stands out,” said Coach Brad. “We win as a team and lose as a team.” 

The team's success results from a talented group of girls who work hard and possess high skill levels. 

"We focus a lot on individual skills in practice to elevate girls who haven't played at a high level of hockey to the next level," said Coach Brad. 

Collaboration between coaching staff, analyzing opponents' weaknesses, and tailoring practice plans accordingly are the strategies that define their approach. 

"Our girls can compete with anyone, so the difference often comes down to who wants it more," said Coach Brad. 

Coach Brad looks to the end of the season and future seasons with hope.  

"It's challenging to predict the future, but as our younger players mature and we integrate new ones, we hope to maintain our culture of hard work and inclusiveness for all players, regardless of age," he concludes, leaving the door open for more chapters in the team's compelling journey.