Defender Ashton Bell has been selected as the inaugural captain for the Vancouver Goldeneyes in the PWHL. This announcement was made by the team’s leadership group, including NSL champion Shannon Woeller from Vancouver Rise FC.
Bell, a 25-year-old from Deloraine, Man., played a significant role in Ottawa Charge’s journey to the Walter Cup final last season alongside veteran defender Jocelyne Larocque. She is an Olympic gold medalist and three-time world champion with the Canadian national team.
Vancouver chose Bell as the top pick in the expansion draft, signing her for a two-season contract. Vancouver GM Cara Gardner Morey emphasized Bell’s exceptional leadership qualities as a key factor in their decision.
Joining Bell in the leadership group are defender Claire Thompson and forward Sarah Nurse, who will serve as alternate captains. Both Thompson and Nurse, Olympic gold medalists with Team Canada, were signed during the expansion draft signing period.
Thompson, a 27-year-old from Toronto, returned to professional hockey last season after pursuing medical school. She won the Walter Cup with the Minnesota Frost in her first PWHL campaign and was a finalist for the league’s defender of the year award.
Nurse, a 30-year-old from Hamilton, achieved a notable record in the PWHL, ranking fifth all-time in career points per game. She played a pivotal role in the league’s establishment and collective bargaining agreement negotiations with the owners.
Gardner Morey praised Thompson’s captaincy skills, highlighting her ability to balance competitiveness with a light-hearted approach on the ice. Regarding Nurse, Gardner Morey described her as a player advocate who is highly respected by staff and teammates.
The Vancouver Goldeneyes will face the Seattle Torrent in their sold-out inaugural game on Friday night at 7 p.m. PT/10 p.m. ET, expected to set a new attendance record for a PWHL team’s home game.