Natalie Spooner Makes History with Fourth Olympic Hockey Selection

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In a moment of significance for Canadian sports, general manager Gina Kingsbury announced that Natalie Spooner will represent Canada in the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics. This marks Spooner’s fourth Olympic appearance, as she and her teammates prepare to defend their gold medal in women’s hockey at Milano Cortina.

Spooner’s selection reflects her resilience, particularly after overcoming injuries and embracing motherhood. Kingsbury expressed confidence in Spooner, stating, “You are exactly what this team needs.”

Overcoming challenges

The journey to this achievement has been arduous for the 35-year-old from Scarborough, Ontario. Following a serious knee injury, Spooner dedicated years to regaining her form. Both Kingsbury, who manages Spooner’s team, the Toronto Sceptres, and head coach Troy Ryan have witnessed her commitment firsthand, acknowledging her perseverance through various challenges.

Emotional return to the ice

Upon receiving the call confirming her Olympic selection, Spooner experienced tears of joy and relief. The burden of uncertainty had been lifted. Reflecting on her recent years, she shared that overwhelming emotions surged within her, especially after navigating hurdles, including her return to hockey after the birth of her son, Rory.

“It felt incredible to hear I made the team,” she remarked during a promotional event for the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, which supports athletes through its Quest for Gold program.

Preparing for the challenge

The path to Milano Cortina has demanded Spooner’s intensive focus on training. After two summers of rehabilitation, she could concentrate solely on her hockey preparation. Last season, she returned from surgery but struggled to regain her rhythm. This offseason, however, allowed her to skate pain-free, rekindling her passion for the game.

Regaining peak performance

“Having a productive off-season was crucial,” Spooner emphasized. “I was able to train effectively and regain my strength.” With renewed determination, she is focused on enhancing her performance as she approaches the Olympics.

Spooner’s impressive size and skill make her a formidable presence on the ice. According to teammate Sarah Fillier, “Her size makes her so hard to play against. She may not appear to be the fastest skater, but her agility and ability to conceal her speed are truly remarkable.” Despite facing challenges in scoring this season, Spooner remains an essential player, recording six points, including three goals, in 15 games.

However, the team has struggled with power play efficiency, scoring only four goals from 35 opportunities, contributing to a series of losses. Coach Ryan highlighted the need for improvement, stating, “We have to find a way to dig ourselves out of this hole.”

Embracing her role as a veteran

As Spooner prepares for her fourth Olympic appearance, she reflects on her journey since her debut in 2014. At that time, as a young player, she felt the weight of expectations and leaned on veterans like Caroline Ouellette and Hayley Wickenheiser, whose composure in tense moments greatly influenced her.