The recent faceoff between the 2025 Walter Cup adversaries placed hockey on the sidelines as the Professional Women’s Hockey League community united to offer support to Ottawa Charge’s head coach Carla MacLeod in her fight against breast cancer this week. Minnesota Frost’s captain, Kendall Coyne Schofield, expressed the collective sentiment, emphasizing solidarity with MacLeod in her battle. Coyne Schofield’s stellar performance, including her first PWHL hat trick, propelled the Frost to a commanding 5-1 victory over the Charge, marking their first encounter since Minnesota’s triumph over Ottawa in the Walter Cup finals.
Despite the competitive atmosphere, the primary focus remained on MacLeod’s well-being. MacLeod disclosed her breast cancer diagnosis to the public on Sunday, affirming her determination to continue coaching. The TD Place Arena was awash in pink as a gesture of support for MacLeod, who received a heartfelt standing ovation from both home and away fans despite her absence due to medical consultations.
Assistant coach Haley Irwin assumed the role of acting bench boss in MacLeod’s stead, acknowledging the challenge of filling MacLeod’s shoes. The game saw the Charge struggle early on, conceding three goals within the first seven minutes to the Frost’s offensive prowess. Ottawa rallied after a sluggish start but faced an impenetrable defense from Frost goaltender Nicole Hensley, thwarting all attempts in the initial two periods.
Rookie defender Rory Guilday provided a glimmer of hope for the Charge with her inaugural PWHL goal on a power play in the third period. The Charge now gear up for a demanding five-game road trip, commencing with a match against the Toronto Sceptres.