Danièle Sauvageau, a prominent figure in hockey, has been part of numerous significant moments throughout her illustrious career, notably guiding the Canadian women’s hockey team to their first Olympic gold in 2002, a pivotal event that reshaped the landscape of women’s hockey in the country.
While she has witnessed many remarkable achievements, Sauvageau envisions a future scene where Marie-Philip Poulin, the captain of the Victoire team, raises the Walter Cup, the championship trophy of the PWHL, in front of fervent Montreal fans.
The core players of the Montreal team, Poulin, Laura Stacey, and Ann-Renée Desbiens, who were integral signings at the inception of the league in 2023, have extended their contracts with the Victoire until the 2027-28 season. Sauvageau regards these players as the foundation and essence of the team, expressing her desire for them to retire wearing the Montreal Victoire jersey.
Despite finishing first in the league standings last season and earning accolades such as MVP for Poulin and Coach of the Year for Kori Cheverie, the Victoire faced a disappointing early playoff exit at the hands of the Ottawa Charge. However, with the trio of Poulin, Desbiens, and Stacey secured, along with strategic offseason moves by Sauvageau and her team, Montreal is poised to compete strongly in the upcoming seasons.
Poulin, hailed as the world’s finest player and the driving force behind the Victoire, holds the key to the team’s success. Her exceptional performance last season, leading in goals and earning league MVP and top forward honors, underscores her importance to the team’s aspirations.
Desbiens, a standout goaltender, is another crucial asset for the team, while Stacey’s speed and skill as a power forward add depth to the Montreal lineup. Stacey’s on-ice contributions, including leading the league in shots and possessing the best Corsi For rating, highlight her significance to the team’s success.
The trio of Poulin, Stacey, and Desbiens, known for their selfless commitment to the team’s success, played a pivotal role in the team’s decision to prioritize building a competitive roster. The recent contract extensions, kept confidential in terms of financial details, reflect the players’ dedication to Montreal’s championship ambitions.
In addition to retaining key players, Montreal bolstered its roster during the offseason, adding talent like Nicole Gosling on defense and acquiring players such as Jessica DiGirolamo and Maggie Flaherty to enhance defensive depth. Further signings, including Abby Roque, Jade Downie-Landry, and Shiann Darkangelo, provide versatility and strength in key positions, setting the stage for a promising season ahead.
As Montreal gears up for the new season, fans eagerly anticipate the team’s opening games against the Boston Fleet and the New York Sirens, with high hopes for a successful campaign ahead.