Table of Contents
After a challenging nine-month recovery, Emerance Maschmeyer returned to the ice at Vancouver’s Pacific Coliseum on Friday. This marked her first game back following a severe lower-body injury sustained during a match last March while playing for the Ottawa Charge.
At that time, Maschmeyer had achieved a milestone by becoming the first goaltender in the PWHL to reach 1,000 saves, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd. Unfortunately, her celebration was cut short as she left the ice due to her injury, ending what had been a strong season.
Transition to the Vancouver Goldeneyes
With Maschmeyer sidelined, Gwyneth Philips stepped in as the starting goaltender for the Charge. Philips led the team to the Walter Cup finals and earned the title of playoff MVP, despite the team’s loss to the Frost. As the expansion draft approached, Ottawa opted to protect Philips over Maschmeyer, a decision Maschmeyer accepted given Philips’ outstanding performance.
This transition opened a new chapter for Maschmeyer with the Vancouver Goldeneyes. Cara Gardner Morey, the team’s general manager, recognized her leadership qualities and athletic abilities, noting that her experience as a mother provided valuable insights for younger players.
Overcoming adversity
The previous season was a test of resilience for Maschmeyer as she dealt with her injury, which kept her from participating in key tournaments, including the world championship with Team Canada, where she had been a mainstay. “I had to shift my mindset,” she stated, emphasizing the need to adapt her leadership approach during recovery.
During this period, Maschmeyer’s role evolved. Although she could not physically lead on the ice, she inspired her teammates through her positive attitude and unwavering work ethic. Her son, Beckham, born shortly before her injury, became a source of motivation. “Having him changed my approach,” she remarked, highlighting how motherhood provided her with a fresh perspective, allowing her to focus on personal growth and family during her rehabilitation.
First games with the Goldeneyes
In her inaugural game with the Goldeneyes, Maschmeyer delivered an impressive performance, making 24 saves during an emotional overtime victory against the Seattle Torrent. However, her second match proved challenging. In a game against her former team in Ottawa, Maschmeyer stopped 30 shots, but the Goldeneyes ultimately fell to a 5-1 defeat.
As the season progresses, Maschmeyer aims not only to enhance her individual performance but also to represent Canada at the upcoming Olympics in February. Her return to competitive play has garnered recognition, with teammates like Sarah Nurse praising her composure and poise in goal.
Shifts in team dynamics
In the match against the Goldeneyes, the Ottawa Charge looked revitalized compared to their previous loss to the New York Sirens. The team captain, Brianne Jenner, shifted from wing to center, significantly impacting their performance by accumulating four points, including two goals. This strategic change, along with contributions from rookie defender Rory Guilday, positioned Ottawa as a formidable contender this season.
The off-season saw numerous player transitions, notably Abby Roque’s move from New York to Montreal, where her skill set has begun to shine. Roque’s dynamic play was evident in her second game, where she scored a stunning goal, showcasing her strategic thinking and ability to create scoring opportunities.
Looking ahead
At that time, Maschmeyer had achieved a milestone by becoming the first goaltender in the PWHL to reach 1,000 saves, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd. Unfortunately, her celebration was cut short as she left the ice due to her injury, ending what had been a strong season.0