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Inside the ice rink in Etobicoke, Ontario, Blayre Turnbull stands out as a crucial link between her team and coaching staff. During a recent Olympic training camp, head coach Troy Ryan sought her insights on practice, demonstrating the trust he places in her judgment. Her nod of agreement reassured him, confirming their alignment, which highlights her role as an experienced leader.
At 32, Turnbull has spent over a decade on the national scene, establishing herself as a reliable player whose impact goes beyond statistics. While she may not be the one to score the game-winning goal, her defensive skills and competitive spirit make her an invaluable asset. As fellow assistant captain Jocelyne Larocque aptly puts it, “She competes hard, and that’s her bread and butter.”
The journey of resilience
Turnbull’s path to elite women’s hockey is rooted in her upbringing in Stellarton, Nova Scotia, a small town with a rich coal mining history. The community, with a population under 5,000, instilled a sense of grit and resilience in her from an early age. With limited opportunities to play hockey, she often faced off against boys, which fueled her desire to compete fiercely and prove herself.
Lessons from home
Growing up alongside her younger brother, Brent, Turnbull learned the importance of hard work and determination. “That was kind of the attitude my brother and I were taught to approach everything with,” she reflects. This foundational mindset was essential as she navigated the challenges of representing Atlantic Canada against athletes from larger provinces, constantly striving to demonstrate her worth.
Her persistence paid off when she rejoined the Canadian national team during the 2015-16 season after being cut from the U18 team years prior. This comeback was not just about securing a spot but reaffirming her unwavering commitment to the sport. Turnbull quickly evolved into a defensive powerhouse on the national team, particularly noted for her contributions to the penalty kill unit, aptly dubbed the “power kill.”
A leader on and off the ice
Turnbull’s impact extends beyond her on-ice performance; her leadership qualities shine within the Canadian program. Canadian captain Marie-Philip Poulin has expressed admiration for Turnbull, stating, “I’m still learning from her. As a leader, she has a big role in this group.” This sentiment underscores Turnbull’s ability to foster unity among her teammates.
Connecting with the community
Turnbull’s roots in Nova Scotia remain a significant part of her identity. She frequently returns to her home province, hosting hockey camps and engaging with young players aspiring to follow in her footsteps. “I’ll talk to my grandmother on the phone, and she’ll say so and so from down the street, you don’t know them, but they stay up and watch all your games,” she shares. This connection to her community reinforces her commitment to inspiring the next generation of female hockey players.
As the captain of the Toronto Sceptres in the newly formed PWHL, Turnbull has embraced her role, collaborating with coach Troy Ryan to develop a strong team dynamic. Their shared experiences from the Maritimes create a unique bond that enhances their collaborative efforts. Ryan describes Turnbull as someone whose family values have shaped her work ethic and dedication.
The road ahead
With the Winter Olympics approaching, Turnbull is focused on representing Canada for the third time. Despite past achievements, including Olympic gold and multiple world championships, her drive to prove herself remains strong. She acknowledges this persistence as a key motivator during challenging times, stating, “It’s an easy thing for me to fall back on when times are hard or when times get easy, too.”
As she prepares for upcoming competitions, Turnbull exemplifies what it means to lead with authenticity and purpose. Her journey, marked by resilience and an unwavering commitment to her team, cements her status as a cornerstone of Canadian women’s hockey. With each game, she continues to inspire not only her teammates but also aspiring athletes across the country.