En route to Hockey Canada’s orientation camp in Calgary last summer, Hannah Miller felt a sense of gratitude. At 29 years old, back in contention for the Canadian senior national hockey team after playing hockey worldwide, the PWHL Vancouver forward was thrilled for the opportunity. She was among the 30 players selected to vie for a spot on the Canadian Olympic team, the pinnacle of women’s hockey, where she would compete alongside top-level athletes daily.
“Being chosen to try out for the Canadian Olympic team is a special opportunity that doesn’t come around often,” Miller expressed during Hockey Canada’s second Olympic training session in Toronto earlier this month. “Every drill is valuable at such a high pace, and there is always something to learn from each repetition.”
However, uncertainty loomed over Miller. Six months prior, she had made it to the Canadian world championship team, marking her return to the red and white jersey after over a decade since her time with the Canadian Under-18 team.
Regrettably, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) ruled Miller ineligible to play for Canada at the world championship. The decision stemmed from Miller’s previous participation with the Chinese Olympic team, including the 2022 Olympics, as part of their women’s hockey development program.
“It was a tough situation,” Miller admitted about the ruling. “I tried to manage my expectations throughout the process, but it was challenging. I was honored and excited to be part of the team and eager to contribute to their pursuit of a gold medal in the Czech Republic.”
Seeking Clarity
Initially, it seemed that Miller’s eligibility issue would resolve once two years had elapsed since her last game with the Chinese team, which happened by May 31. However, a clause regarding international transfers presented a new obstacle.
The issue revolves around a rule preventing multiple transfers to different countries, as explained by Canadian GM Gina Kingsbury. From Hockey Canada’s perspective, Miller seeks reinstatement to her home country, where she was born, previously represented Canada, and currently resides.
“The holdup is due to a rule that lacks clarity in the bylaws but is detailed on the [IIHF] website,” Kingsbury elaborated. “We are working to understand the exact interpretation of this rule and whether Miller’s case constitutes a transfer or a reinstatement within her own country.”
Hockey Canada has lodged an appeal with the IIHF, awaiting a final decision on the matter.
The uncertainty has placed Miller in a peculiar position: striving to secure a spot on a team where her eligibility remains uncertain.
“Ultimately, the situation is beyond my control,” Miller remarked. “Looking back, I made decisions based on available opportunities and what was best for my career at the time. Now, it’s about taking each day as it comes and embracing the journey amidst all uncertainties.”
A Nonlinear Journey
Miller’s path to the PWHL and the senior national team has been far from straightforward.
Besides her time in China, Miller also competed in the Swedish Women’s Hockey League (SDHL) for a season.
Drafted by Toronto in the 13th round of the inaugural PWHL