Posts Tagged ‘UBC Thunderbirds Women’s Hockey’

Playoffs: The UBC Thunderbirds take on the Canada West leading Alberta Pandas

Posted: February 21, 2020 in UBC Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Vancouver, Women's Hockey
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The UBC Thunderbirds at Protrans Community Arena. Photo: Har Journalist.

VANCOUVER, B.C – The UBC Thunderbirds are riding a wave of momentum as they head into the Canada West playoff semifinals. UBC upset the third ranked Saskatchewan Huskies and swept them out of the playoffs with a pair of road victories last weekend.

Two wins is all that separates the Thunderbirds from earning a trip to the USports National Championship in Charlottetown, P.E.I next month.

UBC will take on the Canada West top ranked Alberta Pandas in the semifinals. The best of three series starts on Friday in Edmonton at Clarke Drake Arena.

Alberta finished the season with a 20-8-0 record and 59 points. UBC was able to earn the sixth and final Canada West playoff spot with a 10-14-4 record and 34 points. The Pandas topped the conference with 81 goals for.

The Pandas had their way with UBC during the regular season earning all four victories by a combined 18-1 margin. If UBC is going to upset another favoured Canada West team, they’ll need much more offensive fire power.

While Alberta dominated UBC in league action, Alberta Pandas Coach, Howie Draper isn’t expecting a cake walk.

“UBC has a strong, skilled team that is coached well.” Draper said. “They have momentum right now having beaten a very good team in Saskatchewan – Two straight games. We would be foolish to think that this series will be an easy one. We’ll need to play our best hockey of the season to get past them.”

UBC’s Mathea Fischer leads Canada West in playoff scoring with one goal, and three assists. The Thunderbirds captain took her game to another level against the Huskies.

“I think the biggest thing is battling and competing,” Fischer explained to Har Journalist earlier this week. “In playoffs it’s not always pretty. It comes down to what team wants it the most. They’re a really good team, a great program. It’s going to be a tough battle. I think taking on what we did last weekend and keeping the same mentally, coming out as the underdogs will work to our benefit.”

UBC’s Hannah Clayton-Carroll has had a knack for producing timely goals when it matters the most. The Vancouver native scored the overtime winner to send UBC to the semifinals. If there is open space to drift into, Clayton-Carroll will find it. When UBC’s power play is successful, they’re moving the puck, and Clayton-Carroll is involved.

“It’s going to be huge,” Clayton-Carroll explained. “In weekends like this it’s a battle, and specialty teams really are important to keying in on all the important stuff. Knowing your role is going to be beneficial to us. It’s going to be good.”

UBC will be taking on an underdog approach. There is no doubt that the Pandas are a heavy favourite to advance to the Canada West Final. The Thunderbirds aren’t bothered by rankings, points, or home ice advantage.

The Thunderbirds are a confident team no matter who the opponent is.

“We’re super excited,” Jaedon Cookie said. “We’re going in with the underdog mentality. We’ve been feeling good and we’re pumped.”

While the Pandas offensive attack created massive problems for UBC this season, they will have a challenge of their own without injured forward Alex Poznikoff. The fifth year senior had her season cut short after suffering a broken leg last month.

In the absence of Poznikoff, Alberta hasn’t slowed down as they continue to win.

“Not having Alex in the line up doesn’t make our job any easier,” Draper said. “I’ve really been happy with how the rest of our players have stepped up in each of their respective roles to help us his first place and maintain that spot. We miss Alex, but we’re confident that we have a team that can still get the job.”

The Birds and Pandas know exactly what the other team is going to do. A spot at USports Nationals is on the line, and both teams will want to bring their best game. It’s going to be an exciting series where anything can happen.

 

Is Hockey Experiencing a Me Too Movement?

Posted: December 13, 2019 in UBC Hockey, UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Vancouver, Women's Hockey
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The UBC Thunderbirds on Tuesday, December 10, 2019. Photo: Har Journalist

VANCOUVER B.C – The hockey world has been shaken as alleged incidents of racism, physical, verbal, and emotional abuse have rocked Canada’s favourite sport. Players have found the courage to speak out about abuse that should not be tolerated. Whether it’s at the NHL, major junior, or university level, bullying, intimidation, and abuse is not acceptable.

In a series of social media posts last month, former NHL player, Akim Aliu came forward with allegations of a racist incident that he experienced from a former coach.

The Calgary Flames and Coach Bill Peters went their separate ways on November 29, after Peters resigned. Aliu’s vulnerability opened a dark, but necessary chapter that is not openly discussed in the hockey world.

Further incidents involving players and coaches have since surfaced. The Chicago Blackhawks put assistant coach Marc Crawford on a leave of absence while they look into allegations from Crawford’s time at a previous organization.

On Tuesday, the Dallas Stars dismissed Coach Jim Montgomery citing, ‘unprofessional conduct’.

The NHL isn’t the only league that has taken swift action over bad behaviour.

The Swift Current Broncos fired head athletic trainer and equipment manager Jamie LeBlanc on December 2. The team cited, ‘demeaning, and derogatory’ comments.

Women’s hockey has also had troubling incidents of bullying and harassment.

The Lethbridge Pronghorns, and Windsor Lancers have had alarming allegations come to light. Lethbridge took action earlier this year, while Windsor has been slow to react.

Deanna Iwanicka continues to coach Windsor this season. The Lancers are 2-10-0.

Canada West’s, UBC Thunderbirds have built a positive environment for players and coaches that looks to bring everyone together. The positive culture within the team helps lead to success on and off the ice. There is no tolerance for crossing personal boundaries.

“There’s a grey zone that is in the coaching world,” Coach Graham Thomas explained to Har Journalist earlier this week after practice. “A fine line between challenging somebody, trying to get the best out of somebody, and pushing them where they feel like it’s too much. We always talk about hearing the message, and not the tone. We try and create an environment of respect and openness.

As coaches and players we make mistakes, we call do. If we felt like we were hard on somebody, we apologize, and learn what we could have done differently. It’s a heated game, it’s a competitive game. We’re all very competitive and the players do the same. The players get fired up or upset, and they say things that they don’t mean. Whether it’s to the other team, the ref, or us. We try in general to have a fine line.

If it’s demeaning, racist, anything like that. We never call anyone out individually in that tone. We’ve put it in our code of conduct, respecting our competition. Just being mindful of what we’re saying. There’s chirps, and they’re talking to the other team throughout a game. We’ve just got to know that we do our talking on the ice, and never cross the line.”

The foundation of a successful hockey team starts with having everyone on the same page. Whether you’re working your way back from an injury, battling for ice time, or charting face-off and goalie statistics from the press box.

Everyone must be respected.

The Thunderbirds have built a winning mentality that includes everyone on the team.

“I’d say we’re very fortunate here at UBC,” Fourth-year forward, Shiayli Toni said. “We have wonderful coaches, and one of the primary goals when recruiting players is to really recruit for character. It’s not enough to have skill or talent. To get into this locker room and be a part of this team they have to know you’re a solid person through and through. I think that really sets us up for success. It also shows us how they care about us as a whole person, and not just as hockey players.

In sports culture, there’s such a hierarchy between coaches and certain people who can dictate your success in the game. Unfortunately there are some people who abuse their power. I think here at UBC we’ve created a tight knit family. Everyone has each others best interest at heart.”

What happened with Lethbridge and Windsor has come as a bit of a surprise to Toni.

“I think we’re all aware that these things happen in the world,” Toni said. “Not all of us have to face that on a personal level, in our day to day lives. The fact that it’s women’s hockey and people who I’ve probably played with in the past or played against, it does hit close to home.”

The strong culture that’s present within the program wasn’t always the case at UBC. The Thunderbirds went through some tough times before the current coaching staff was in place. Changing attitudes and the way hockey is viewed can take time. It starts with eliminating old stereotypes and gaps between young players and established veterans.

“We’ve worked really hard at creating an environment,” Thomas said. “It’s started with making sure there is no hazing. No freshman and fifth-year, major complex and division that they’re being treated differently. They do some more duties than the fifth years, but it’s all where you put your time in. More responsibilities on a road trip or picking up pucks after practice. We’re worked really hard at creating an environment where everybody feels safe and supported so there’s not this ‘Hey, I’m a senior, I’m going to boss you around.’ There was a lot of that when I got here. We’ve really tried to get rid of that.”

The Calgary, Alberta native, knows the image that hockey is looking to move forward from. The coaching style that has been in place for decades is not what society expects to see.

“I feel like in hockey there are some old school behaviours and treatment of players that does need to get out of the game,” Thomas said. “I experienced a bit myself, a little physical and verbal abuse in my career, and there’s no need for it. There’s one thing to motivate and challenge a player, it’s another thing in keeping that professional line and not crossing it.”

Sports has always been a place where we go to be entertained and watch our heroes. Now we’re seeing sports catching up to the rest of society. It’s important for athletes to have a safe place to play, and to be able to speak out if they’re in an uncomfortable environment. Hockey is a better sport when everyone is treated respectfully.

Rookie Chanreet Bassi makes and instant impact with the UBC Thunderbirds!!

Posted: December 9, 2019 in UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Vancouver, Women's Hockey
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UBC Thunderbirds forward, Chanreet Bassi. Photo: Har Journalist

VANCOUVER, B.C – The UBC Thunderbirds have an exciting rookie forward that’s looking to dazzle this season. Chanreet Bassi has brought speed and skill to the Thunderbirds lineup. Bassi’s positive energy and enthusiasm has helped UBC to a 8-5-3 first half record.

“Everything’s super good,” Bassi explained to Har Journalist. “I love the team. School is going well and we’re doing pretty well right now.”

In 16 games this season, Bassi has contributed two goals and two assists. The first goal in her UBC career came on the power play during the teams home opener on October 11 vs Calgary. It’s not everyday that a first-year player earns power play time, but Bassi has earned it.

“She has a very high hockey sense and hockey IQ,” Coach Graham Thomas explained. “She has a lot of skill. She sees the ice really well, and you match that with great skating ability. She’s still learning to be a consistent force in this league. She needs to continue to have that focus and intent all the time. She’s adapting to this level and the physicality. She’s done it pretty well. I think she’s going to get even better, and better as the season goes on.”

The Lake Country, B.C. native, has found herself on an explosive second line with Emma Hall, and Ashley McFadden. The trio bring tremendous finesse, terrific puck control, and blistering pace.

“Hallzy and Bassi played on Team B.C. together,” Thomas revealed. “They had a little bit of a connection. We didn’t try it right away, but we threw it out there. It’s really nice to see that they’re finding each other. You’re right, they’re very similar. They have a smiler skill-set and mindset. It’s good to see.”

As UBC looks for scoring by committee, the second line has the ability to carry the team and produce timely goals.

“Both Hallzy and McFadden great players,” Bassi said. “They support me on the ice and I love playing with them.”

Thunderbirds captain, Mathea Fischer has looked to pick up a few of Bassi’s puck handling tricks this season. The fifth-year centre is glad to have Bassi on her team and not on the opposition.

“She’s a very very dynamic player, Fischer said. “She has lot of skills. It’s always fun to watch her, she brings something different everyday. Even in practice, watching her and trying to learn some of the moves that she does. She’s a great player, and a great teammate. We’re lucky to have her here.”

The 21-year-old got into hockey at an early age. When you grow up in a family with an older sibling that loves hockey, naturally you want to be involved. Bassi knew that she wanted hockey to be a part of her life, and she quickly picked up the sport.

“I got into hockey when I was three or four,” Bassi explained. “I started playing it because I saw my brother would play it. I was just like, ‘oh, that’s like the coolest sport’. I wanted to get into it.”

Besides her brother, Bassi had a certain Montreal Canadiens player she also followed.

“As a youngster probably Brendan Gallagher,” Bassi said. “He’s just a feisty player, scores goals. and he works hard.”

If there is anyone on the Thunderbirds that knows Chanreet Bassi the best, that’s defender, Sydney Neustaeter.

Bassi and Neustaeter both grew up in Lake Country.

“I met her through hockey,” Neustaeter explained. “We had always kind of lived in the same places, but we went to different schools. We finally played together on the Kelowna Bantam A team. It was about six years ago. We’ve met through hockey, and have become close.

I committed before her, and I was really trying to push her to come here. I knew she was really interested in it, so I pushed her to get a commitment here.”

What’s the best way to shutdown Bassi one on one?

“I try and take the body as much as I can,” Neustaeter said. “I know her hands are pretty fast. If I take one look down, she’s already past me. I’ve got to take the body and hope for the best.”

UBC will be hoping to bounce back from a four-game losing streak when the second half of the Canada West season begins on January 3 against the Calgary Dinos. UBC has scored once in their last four games.

Spoken like a true veteran, Bassi is focused on the present. The Canada West playoffs, and possible USports Championship can wait. She isn’t about to be distracted by outside noise.

“We’re not going to think that far ahead,” Bassi said. “Yeah, just focus on the games ahead and just keep working at it.”

As a first-year player, what would it mean to make it to the national USports final?

“It would obviously be a dream, but once again, just have to work hard to get there. We’re just going to have to keep that up.”

The UBC Thunderbirds have a promising talent in Chanreet Bassi and the best is yet to come.

The UBC Thunderbirds look to improve special teams against the Alberta Pandas

Posted: November 27, 2019 in UBC Hockey, UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Women's Hockey
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The UBC Thunderbirds at Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre on November 26, 2019. Photo: Har Journalist

VANCOUVER, B.C – UBC will be looking to get back to their winning ways after being swept at home by the Mount Royal Cougars last weekend. Riding a six-game winning streak, UBC lost 2-1 and 1-0 to Mount Royal. UBC’s 8-3-3 record has them in second spot in Canada West with 26 points. They will close out the first half at home vs Alberta this weekend.

The Thunderbirds two-game losing streak has them taking everything in stride. It’s a long season, and you know there will be bumps along the way. Coach Graham Thomas wants to see his team continue to stick to the process.

“We learned an important lesson to not let our highs get too high, and our lows too low,” Thomas explained to Har Journalist earlier this week. “We learned the highs too high part on the weekend. Maybe we were thinking too much of ourselves, and not sticking to the process, and not putting the work in. All the hard work we did to earn those wins, and the (six-game winning) streak. We kind of veered from that.”

The process at hand involves a battle against the Alberta Pandas.

The Thunderbirds and Pandas faced off in the season opener. Alberta earned 7-1 and 7-0 wins over UBC.

The Birds have since re-grouped and are the highest ranked Canada West team in USports.

First year defender, Sydney Neustaeter, knows what UBC has to do to beat Alberta.

“I think we’ve got to shut down their speed, really take it to them” Neustaeter revealed. “They’re a small fast team. If we take the body to them, they shouldn’t be able to get past us.”

The Thunderbirds will also have to win the special teams battle. Mount Royal got the better of UBC’s power play. UBC’s power play is 10/59 this season at 16.9 percent, that has them third in Canada West.

“The special teams hurt us on the weekend,” Thomas said. “Our penalty kill needs to be better. We need to block shots, and we need to make smarter reads. The power play, it was all about execution. We just weren’t making passes, we weren’t supporting the plays very well. They just need to be better. They know it, they’re capable, and we believe in them.”

No matter what Canadian city you are in, there’s bound to be a discussion on how to fix the power play. Whether it’s an umbrella, overload, or 1-3-1 formation, everyone seems to have the answer of how to fix a struggling power play.

Captain Mathea Fischer, isn’t too worried about UBC’s challenges on the power play.

“I think the power play is about out working the pk.” Fischer said. “Keeping up that same work ethic that you do five on five. For us on the power play, I think it’s a great opportunity to be out there, have some fun, out work, and try and create some offence.”

The Pandas power play is 16/60 and at 26.7 percent, they are far and away leading Canada West with the player advantage. UBC will have to play disciplined and stay out of the box, especially because the Thunderbirds penalty killing is a league worst 78 percent.

There is more on the line in this matchup besides closing the first half on a positive note. The Pandas currently sit in third spot with an 8-6-0 record and 23 points. If UBC can earn a split or take both games from Alberta. That could make all the difference in deciding which team gets a first-round Canada West playoff bye in February.

Yes, it’s still November, but every game matters. In a conference that’s as close as Canada West, you can’t afford to take an evening or afternoon off. If UBC can send the Pandas into an early hibernation, that could decide which team earns a week of rest in February.

“It’s extremely important, especially tie-breakers,” Thomas reiterated. “All that comes into play. The points are very important, and they took it to us last time. We’re a different team now, a much better group, and we’ve come along way since we played them in the first weekend. We’ve got to come ready to prove that and show it to ourselves and everybody. The points are extremely important. Every game in this league is so tight.”

“Every point, every weekend is going to be huge come the end of the season,” Fischer said. “This league is so tight, and it’s probably the tightest in the country. The Pandas are always a good battle. It’s going to be a good test for us.”

Finishing the first half with some wins could help UBC build confidence for the new year. The Thunderbirds will begin January on the road against conference leading Calgary, January 3 – 4. Until then it’s all about the Panda, Panda, Pandas.

Shiayli Toni and the UBC Thunderbirds go above and beyond to make a difference

Posted: October 24, 2019 in UBC Hockey, UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Vancouver, Women's Hockey
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The UBC Thunderbirds at Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre. October 24, 2019. Photo: Har Journalist

VANCOUVER, B.C – The UBC Thunderbirds will be back on the ice on Friday night when they host the Manitoba Bisons at The Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre. There will be a lot more than hockey on the line when the Birds and Bisons battle.

The 2-2-2 Thunderbirds, will have their second annual Sexual Assault Awareness game. UBC forward, Shiayli Toni, is the force behind the initiative that will be looking to raise money for the British Columbia, WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre.

“This event is a student led initiative,” Toni explained to Har Journalist. “It’s meant to be a coming together of our community of allies, and supporters as a way to strengthen our community, and have a really positive response. We all know and love someone who has being affected by sexual violence. I think we all play a part in building a culture of consent.”

The fourth-year Thunderbird, has gone above and beyond to help make a change.

Toni’s work on campus extends to the Sexual Violence Prevention Response Office (SVPRO).

“I’m student staff, and I work closely with the education team working on campaigns, advocacy, helping design, and deliver workshop material and curriculum.”

Earlier this year, Toni helped create a special book that helps to raise awareness.

“This summer I designed a colouring book for survivors and allies,” Toni revealed. “It’s a campus resource that our office is distributing right now. They have them at different councillng centres on campus. It’s available for free, for anyone who would like one. It’s my favourite summer project that I’ve ever worked on.”

The Saskatoon native, helped create a pledge poster that hangs outside the UBC Thunderbirds gym.

As Toni works her way back from tearing her ACL last season, she is determined to help others. Navigating the challenges that university life brings can be difficult. Knowing that there is support, and help if you need it, means everything. Having resources, and allies ready to lend a hand can make life a whole lot better for anyone struggling.

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Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office Pledge Poster: Photo: Har Journalist

“As women we know this is a gendered issue,” Toni said. “We want to use our platform to raise awareness and take leadership. We hope that other athletes, and people, in our community and on this campus will step up and join us.”

Universities are meant to be safe places for students, athletes, and faculty, but that’s not always the case. Campuses all over the world have had issues with rape culture, sexual violence, consent, and understanding that no, means no.

The UBC Thunderbirds Women’s Hockey team is the only team on campus that has Sexual Assault Awareness game.

Coach Graham Thomas, and his staff fully support their players making a difference on and off the ice.

“It’s something that our players, and I think some of our alumni, where it’s kind of close to home. It’s an issue that is very prevalent on campuses, but everywhere. It’s not like it’s a UBC thing. It’s something that’s in our culture, and all across the world. It’s a really great cause, and it’s something that we wanted to make a stand for and support.”

How can you help show your support?

“First of all, come out to the game on Friday. The more people, the better.” Toni said.

Fans in attendance are asked to wear teal, the colour of sexual support awareness.

“I definitely think we could all be doing more,” Toni explained. “Not just on this campus, but just in society in general. Anytime that people step up and take leadership, we’re moving in the right direction.

I think just given our platform as student athletes and the fact that we can host an event like this. It’s an easy way to get other people to buy in and to make a statement that, ‘We do not stand for this’.”

The Manitoba Bisons knocked UBC out of the 2019 Canada West semifinals playoffs, but redemption isn’t at the forefront of this weekend’s series. It’s more than just power plays, slapshots, defensive zone coverage. Toni and her teammates are motivated to lead the way, and help raise support for sexual assault awareness.

Home Opener: The UBC Thunderbirds take on the undefeated Calgary Dinos

Posted: October 7, 2019 in UBC Hockey, UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Vancouver, Women's Hockey
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The 2019 UBC Thunderbirds practicing at Father David Bauer Arena. Photo: Har Journalist 

VANCOUVER, B.C – The UBC Thunderbirds will be back in action on Friday night when they drop the puck on their first home game of the season. UBC will be looking to earn their first win of the season after a pair of losses to the Alberta Pandas. The defending Canada West champions earned 7-1 and 7-0 wins over UBC.

UBC will be in tough as they battle a Dinos team that’s full of confidence and momentum.

The visitors, come into the weekend series riding a perfect 2-0-0 record.

In order for UBC to earn a result, they’re going to have stay out of the penalty box. Good teams make you pay with the player advantage, and that’s exactly what Alberta did. The parade to the box helped the Pandas score 7 power play goals.

UBC will also have to be solid defensivly, and locked in offensively, but that’s easier said than done. The Thunderbirds will be taking on a scoring by committee approach. UBC wants to have four quality scoring lines that can contribute regularly.

UBC Thunderbirds Coach Graham Thomas, is excited to have his top two scorers back this season.

“We’re returning Fish, (Mathea Fischer), and Hannah Clayton-Carroll, and they like to play together. We have them playing together. I think they’ll be good again. We’ve added Bassi, (Chanreet Bassi) a rookie to add to that. I think they complement each other well. Hallzy’s, (Emma Hall) always good for some dangles. The other three lines are going to be scoring by committee.”

UBC’s second line could be in line for a breakout season. Ireland Perrott, Shay-Lee McConnell, and Mackenzie Kordic have the skill and talent to surprise opponents. If they can get on a roll early, UBC could have two number one scoring lines.

“Shay, and Ireland had a nice little thing going last year, some chemistry,” Thomas revealed. “We’re going to add Kordic, a freshman with some size, and a shot on that line. I think we’re going to be good.”

In her third season with UBC, Perrott, wants to continue developing by working hard at both ends of the rink. The Calahoo, Alberta native, is delighted to be on a line with McConnell and Kordic.

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UBC Thunderbirds forward, Ireland Perrott. Photo: Har Journalist

“Shay is one of our best two-hundred foot players,” Perrott explained. “Really smart, defensively sound, has a scoring touch. Mackenzie Kordic, big power forward, good shot, big body, and can win puck battles, and really be a force out there. I’m really luck to be playing with them.”

The Thunderbirds trio of Tiffany Chiu, Ashley McFadden, and Emma Hall, all have speed to burn. They have a quick first step that should help them catch opposition teams in transition. They can stick handle in a phone booth, and should create some magic.

Vancouver native, Tiffany Chiu, knows that this is a deep Thunderbirds team.

“I think this year, we have really good depth on our lines, and I think that will really help. Every line can contribute, whether that’s scoring goals, or being super defensive. It’ll definitely be a team effort to get points on the board.

There’s not really a mega superstar, but there’s definitely those out there who have good talent to get the puck in the back of the net.”

Top teams are measured by how they bounce back after a tough loss. The Thunderbirds experienced that in Edmonton, and it should make them stronger. The Dinos present a new challenge that UBC will have to be ready for on Friday.

The UBC Thunderbirds fight for Equality and a new Policy Change off the ice

Posted: February 14, 2019 in UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Vancouver, Women's Hockey
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VANCOUVER, B.C – Please visit Daily Hive for my story on the UBC Thunderbirds fight for equality off the ice.

https://bit.ly/2tj6qQ1

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The UBC Thunderbirds on Tuesday, February 12, 2019 – Photo: Har Journalist 

 

The UBC Thunderbirds battle the Regina Cougars in a potential playoff preview

Posted: February 6, 2019 in Hockey Canada, UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Women's Hockey
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UBC Thunderbirds goaltender, Tory Micklash in action. Photo: Rich Lam – UBC Thunderbirds

VANCOUVER, B.C – The Canada West season wraps up this weekend with the UBC Thunderbirds hosting the Regina Cougars at Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre. Both teams are heading to the playoffs with potential matchups still to be determined.

The 16-5-5 Thunderbirds are locked into the third position in the conference with 49 points. UBC can’t move up or down. Regina on the other hand will either finish fifth or sixth in Canada West. An 11-12-3 record gives the Cougars 34 points. The Mount Royal Cougars sit in sixth position with 31 points as they chase down their namesake.

How big are these games?

“Honestly, not that big,” Regina Cougars Coach Sarah Hodges explained. “UBC can’t move up or down, we can move down, but not up – so in the grand scheme of things, we’ve both had more important weekends.”

A UBC vs Regina first round playoff series is a distinct possibility. The two teams last met in the playoffs in 2016. UBC won that Canada West semifinal series 2 – 1, and eventually won a silver medal at the 2016 USports Nationals.

Coach Hodges, is down playing the potentiality of a first round meeting.

“A first round playoff matchup is possible, but I think unlikely.” Hodges explained.

The Thunderbirds have a 2-0-0 record against Regina this season, out-scoring the Cougars 4-1 when the teams met at the Co-Operators Centre in November.

UBC has dominated Regina in Vancouver, with a 4-0-0 record in recent regular season play. The Cougars have been out-scored 14 – 7 and have taken zero points on the west coast in the last two seasons. Regina’s last regular season victory in Vancouver against UBC was on February 6, 2016.

“It is a potential opening playoff matchup,” UBC Thunderbirds Coach Graham Thomas told Har Journalist. “It’s either Regina or Mount Royal. A lot can still happen in the last two games. We need to be ready for that. Primarily its just going to be about us. We’re still definitely playing to win, to keep our confidence, and our game improving.”

There’s always an intense battle when the UBC Thunderbirds and Regina Cougars meet in Vancouver. It’s not on the level of the recent St. FX and Acadia University donnybrook, but UBC and Regina don’t like each other. Both teams combined for 28 separate penalties when the teams met for the first time in Vancouver last season.

Regina was called for three separate hit to the head penalties. There was several after the whistle faces washes, and plenty of stick work. It was an intense sixty-minutes of chippy hockey.

“We’re hoping that it’s not one of those weekends,” Thomas said. “I think with some of our past players that are now alumni, I think a lot of that has died off with them as they graduated.”

“This year when we played them, it wasn’t as physical. I don’t think there’s that rivalry at a heightened level anymore. I think it’s just two teams playing hard, battling, and competing. We don’t anticipate it, and we definitely won’t be looking to do that.”

While it certainly could be another physical matchup, neither team wants to head into the playoffs with any injuries. It’s a long gruelling Canada West season, and both teams will want to end the campaign on a positive note as they build momentum for the playoffs.

The rivalry might have been there in the past, but as Hodges explains, it’s dwindling.

“It’s not really.” Hodges disagreed. “The games in Regina are pretty normal. The games in Vancouver can be more physical.”

UBC will honour their six graduating senior players on Saturday. Amelia Boughn, Logan Boyd, Brie Bellerive, Emily Costales, Madison Patrick, and Celine Tardif will all be honoured prior to puck drop.

“We’re looking forward to it,” Thomas echoed. “It’s a big weekend for our seniors. It’s a lot of emotions, but we’re going to try and stick to the task at hand, and have a one-game at a time mentality.”

It’s February, and the Canada West playoffs are right around the corner. This weekend could very well be an appetizer for another classic UBC vs Regina Canada West playoff battle.

UBC Thunderbirds vs Regina Cougars, Friday February 8 at 7:00 pm pt

UBC Thunderbirds vs Regina Cougars, Saturday February 9 at 2:00 pm pt

Together as One: The UBC Thunderbirds thrive on and off the ice

Posted: January 29, 2019 in UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Vancouver, Women's Hockey
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The UBC Thunderbirds putting in work, January 2019. Photo: Har Journalist

VANCOUVER, B.C – It’s crunch time as the race to solidify a position in the Canada West playoffs heats up. The UBC Thunderbirds are clicking at exactly the right time. UBC is on a three game winning streak thanks to back-to-back shutouts from goalie Tory Micklash.

A home sweep of the Saskatchewan Huskies helped UBC clinch a Canada West playoff spot. Where the team ends up finishing is a race that will go down to the wire.

UBC is a well-connected, close-knit team on the ice, but what about off ice?

A successful hockey team can be measured by how together the team is away from the rink.

“It’s unbelievable,” echoed fourth-year forward Hannah Clayton-Carroll. “It’s like we’re a second family. We do everything together. All of us pretty much live together in different apartments. We’re always looking to hangout with each other, and do things. Always studying together, we literally can not get enough of each other. It’s just really nice to have a good team environment, and always feel included in everything.”

“I’d say it’s like a family to me,” Waterdown, Ontario native, Logan Boyd explained. “I’m not from around here, so I’d say it’s like my family when I’m here. It’s really nice every year we have a new group of girls, everyone fits into the team really well.”

“Oh its super special,” Amelia Boughn added. “We’ve got a super special culture here. Every girl on our team just cares for the next, a tremendous amount. It’s unlike any other team I’ve been a part of. It’s my last couple of months. I’m enjoying it and trying to soak up every last-minute.”

The 15-5-4 Thunderbirds currently sit in third place in the conference with 46 points. Manitoba and Alberta hold the top two spots with 53 points each. If UBC is going to leap-frog the Bisons or Pandas and earn a first round playoff bye. They must continue playing consistent sixty minute hockey.

UBC will get a chance to test themselves against the Bisons this weekend. The Thunderbirds head out on the road to the polar vortex that is Manitoba.

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UBC Thunderbirds forward Logan Boyd, January 2019. Photo: Har Journalist

Having a positive, encouraging, and supportive atmosphere makes players want to show up, and be held accountable. Everyone in the UBC locker room is playing for each other. You won’t find culture on a depth chart, you have to build a strong foundation from within. The Thunderbirds are growing, hungry, and ready to battle for a top spot.

“I think our culture is something that’s really important to us,” Boyd explained. “We’ve built this culture where everyone is supportive of each other and everyone wants each other to do well. It’s really easy getting out on the ice knowing that everyone on the bench and in the stands has your back and wants you to do well.”

UBC is a dangerous team that can beat anyone in the country. Securing home ice advantage at Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre will be the key for a long Canada West playoff run.

The 2019 USports Nationals will be held in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, March 14 – 17. As a senior forward that has won silver, and bronze at nationals with UBC. Boyd would love to close out her final season with a gold medal.

“We’re all on the same page,” Boyd said. “We know what needs to get done, and now we’re just working on getting that done.”

A winning recipe has a terrific offence, defence, goaltending, and great special teams. UBC has all the hockey ingredients necessary for success. A lot of what makes the Thunderbirds who they are is because of the strong bond the team has formed as a tight hockey family.

 

 

 

 

No Off Days: The UBC Thunderbirds raise awareness for mental health issues

Posted: January 24, 2019 in UBC Thunderbirds Women's Hockey, UBC Women's Hockey, Vancouver, Women's Hockey
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The UBC Thunderbirds at Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre on Monday, January 21, 2019 – Photo: Har Journalist

VANCOUVER, B.C –  Friday night is hockey night for the UBC Thunderbirds, as they return to Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre to take on the Saskatchewan Huskies. The 13-5-4 Thunderbirds are in the thick of a competitive Canada West playoff race looking to secure a first round playoff bye next month.

Not only is it an important game on the ice, but it’s going to be a special night for the Thunderbirds family. UBC will host its third Bell Let’s Talk game to help raise awareness for mental health issues, and to help end the stigma associated with mental health.

Mental health doesn’t care if you’re an athlete, barista, doctor, or police officer. It’s something that affects everyone. We all know someone who is battling mental health issues. It’s important to be there to help those who need support, and a comforting ear.

“It’s something that we’ve all experienced in our lives,” Coach Graham Thomas said. “In my family we’ve gone through struggles, me personally, and I think many of us have. It’s a good way to be reminded that we’re all in this together. At some point in our lives, everybody is going to be faced with similar things.”

“It’s good that we’re stronger together and we’re talking about it. We’re looking at strategies, we’re coping, and being resilient through adversity in our own lives.”

“It means a lot to our team, and what we’ve gone through with Laura Taylor.”

The suicide of UBC Thunderbirds goalie Laura Taylor in April, 2016 was a tremendous loss for her family and the UBC community. In the time since, the Thunderbirds have stepped up and opened doors so others don’t have to suffer in silence.

UBC President Santa Ono, has been a strong and vocal advocate for mental health. He has been very open about his own challenges with mental health issues. Ono will be on hand for a special ceremonial puck drop.

While it’s important to raise awareness on Bell Let’s Talk Day, (January 30, 2019). It’s vital that mental health awareness isn’t just a cause that we remember to talk about every January. There are no off days for depression, anxiety, and the struggles of daily life.

Thunderbirds defender, Mikayla Ogrodniczuk helped create the UBC Athletes Hub, a fantastic resource to help students, athletes, and anyone who is seeking help for mental health issues. The Vancouver native devoted her own time to make a difference and help other people’s lives.

“Mikayla has been incredible,” Thomas beamed. “That’s where it started. She created the student Athletes Hub for resources. It’s very near and dear to our hearts. I think we have a few players every year that the more that they talk about it, the more we’re open about it.”

“It’s like a physical injury, it needs to get treatment to get back. To me there’s no difference. That’s how we look at it, and we all support and love each other in that. That’s why it’s so important to us.”

The Thunderbirds already have a jump-start on dealing with mental health, and they will look to jump all over Saskatchewan. Sitting in third place with 40 points, UBC has a one-point lead on the Huskies as both teams try to track down a playoff bye.

UBC has had trouble putting together a sixty-minute game. Goaltending, and defence have been on point. It’s up to the offence, and special teams to ripple the twine. The best teams always find ways to win down the stretch, and that’s what UBC aims to do.

“We need to approach every game like it’s our last and it’s a playoff game,” Thomas explained. “Not get focused on the big picture of national championships and byes. We all know it’s a goal of ours, and we know it’s on our minds. We kind of need to take it one day at a time.”

“There should be no lack of motivation going down to the last six games. They’re all big games, they all have playoff implications. That’s why we play the game. That’s the exciting part of the game.” 

UBC Thunderbirds vs Saskatchewan Huskies, Friday January 25 at 7:00 pm pt

UBC Thunderbirds vs Saskatchewan Huskies, Saturday January 26 at 7:00 pm pt

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