YEAR END VIDEO 2024/25
Breakers Battle Hard in Atlantic Championships Opener
The Eastern Ice Breakers kicked off their Atlantic Championships journey with a thrilling contest against the Moncton Rockets, showing heart, skill, and resilience in a hard-fought 2-1 overtime loss. While the final score didn’t go their way, the game was a statement of the Breakers’ ability to compete at this elite level.
Right from the first period, the Breakers set the tone with a beautiful passing play between Penney, Gosse, and Strong, who buried the opening goal to give the team a 1-0 lead. That early chemistry and execution proved the Breakers belong on this stage.
The story of the game, however, was Katie “The Square” Winsor. The Breakers’ netminder put on a goaltending clinic, stopping 47 shots—including a staggering 36 from high-danger areas. Time and time again, Winsor stood tall, frustrating the Rockets and keeping her team in the fight. Her heroic performance earned her Player of the Game honors and showcased the grit and determination that define this Breakers squad.
Though the game ended in overtime heartbreak, the Breakers have gained valuable experience in what it takes to compete at this prestigious tournament. They proved they can skate with the best and will carry that confidence into their next challenge against the host team, the Northern Subway Selects.
With their relentless work ethic and unwavering team spirit, the Breakers are poised to bounce back stronger. This tournament is just getting started, and the Breakers are ready to make their mark.
On to the next one! #BreakTheIce
The Opportunity Ahead – Your Path to the Esso Cup
Dear Eastern Ice Breakers,
The opportunity before you is one that few teams ever get—the chance to win the Atlantic Championship and earn your way to the Esso Cup, the pinnacle of female U18 hockey in Canada. It’s a challenge that demands everything from a team: talent, effort, discipline, and most importantly, unity.
Championship teams are built on more than just skill. They are forged through commitment to each other, trust in the system, and the willingness to do whatever it takes for the person next to you. It means battling for every puck, blocking shots, making the extra pass, and staying focused when the pressure is at its highest. It means lifting each other up when things get tough and celebrating every small victory along the way.
The path to a championship is never easy, but you have the talent, the work ethic, and the heart to achieve something truly special. Play for each other, embrace the grind, and leave everything on the ice.
Your journey is not just about winning—it’s about proving to yourselves that you are capable of greatness. Seize this moment. Go out there, compete with pride, and earn your place at the Esso Cup.
We believe in you. Now go make it happen!
Team Gill Clinches Final Series Berth in Thrilling 2-1 Victory Over Eastern Ice Breakers
In a hard-fought Game 3 at Mary Brown’s Centre, Team Gill overcame adversity to win the series 3-0 against the upstart Eastern Ice Breakers, earning a spot in the final series of the inaugural WJAHL season. Despite a late second-period power play goal by Olivia King that put the Breakers ahead, Team Gill’s resilience shone through in the third period as Molly Gill and Jordyn Piercey delivered crucial goals to seal the win.
A Battle of Experience Versus Youth
The series was a showcase of contrasting profiles. The Eastern Ice Breakers, a scrappy group averaging five years younger than Team Gill, brought relentless energy and youthful exuberance to every game. From the pre-game atmosphere—where the Breakers entered a must-win situation after two heartbreaking overtime losses—to the intensity on the ice, they demonstrated an impressive ability to outshoot and outplay their older opponents at times.
Yet, despite their impressive play and numerous scoring opportunities, the Breakers struggled to close out their chances. In Game 1, they surrendered a late third-period lead before succumbing in overtime. Game 2 followed a similar script with another overtime loss, leaving them with everything to prove in Game 3. In the end, while the Breakers could have, and arguably should have, taken all three games, it was Team Gill’s poise and experience that ultimately prevailed.
The Turning Point: Third-Period Brilliance
After weathering the storm of the power play and a resilient Ice Breakers effort throughout the game, Team Gill turned the tide in the third period. With the game still hanging in the balance, Molly Gill and Jordyn Piercey capitalized on the Breakers’ defensive lapses to secure the go-ahead goals. Their timely strikes not only gave Team Gill the lead but also provided the platform for the final series victory, underscoring the value of composure and execution under pressure.
Priceless Experience for the Breakers
While the loss stings, the Eastern Ice Breakers walked away with something that money can’t buy: invaluable experience. Battling a more seasoned Team Gill, the Breakers were forced to elevate their game and adapt to the challenges presented by playing against veterans. This experience, as they now prepare to travel to the Atlantic Championship in New Glasgow, NS from April 3rd-6th, will undoubtedly serve as a stepping stone in their development. The WJAHL congratulates the Ice Breakers on a memorable season and firmly believes in their potential—not only to win the Atlantic Championship but also to represent Newfoundland and Labrador with pride in the ESSO Cup.
Looking Forward
Team Gill’s series win paves the way for an exciting final series, where their resilience and tactical execution will be put to the test once again. The WJAHL commends both teams for their extraordinary efforts and sportsmanship throughout the season. As Team Gill advances, the league also looks forward to seeing the Eastern Ice Breakers continue to grow and harness the lessons learned from this hard-fought series.
Congratulations to Team Gill on a well-earned victory, and hats off to the Eastern Ice Breakers for their courage and determination. The road ahead is bright for both teams, each poised to make a significant mark in this inaugural season.
Breakers Fight On: The Road to a Comeback Begins
In a hard-fought battle that showcased both grit and determination, the Breakers left everything on the field in a game that, while ending in a loss, lit the spark for an unforgettable comeback. Facing a formidable Team Gill in Game 2 of the best-of-five series, the Breakers fell behind 2-0—but their heart and passion remain unshaken.
From the opening whistle, the Breakers demonstrated their willingness to challenge the status quo. Despite being edged out on the scoreboard, every player on the field showed flashes of brilliance that promise a turning point in the series. The boxscore highlighted moments of exceptional play: dynamic offensive surges and key defensive stops that disrupted Team Gill’s rhythm. It’s clear that while the team might be down in the series, they are far from out.
The players were seen rallying on the sidelines, pushing each other to refocus and strengthen their resolve. The Breakers’ performance was punctuated by remarkable efforts from both seasoned veterans and emerging stars, who combined skill and heart to keep the game competitive against an experienced Team Gill.
While the series now stands at 2-0, this game was a clear message that the Breakers are ready to battle back. The adversity faced on the ice has served as both a lesson and an inspiration, reinforcing the belief that a deficit is nothing more than a challenge waiting to be conquered. With every setback comes the opportunity to learn, adjust, and come back even stronger.
Looking ahead, the Breakers are determined to regroup and refine their strategy for the upcoming games. The commitment to teamwork, the relentless drive, and the unwavering support of the fans will undoubtedly fuel the comeback effort. Every practice, every game, and every moment spent on the field is building the foundation for a turnaround that could rewrite the narrative of this series.
For the fans, the call is clear: stand by your team as they harness the energy from today’s battle, turn that frustration into focus, and skate onto the ice with renewed purpose. The spirit of the Breakers is unbreakable, and the next game promises to be a testament to their resilience and ambition.
The road ahead may be steep, but the Breakers are ready to fight back—stronger, smarter, and more united than ever.
THRILLER IN OVERTIME: TEAM GILL OUTLASTS EASTERN ICE BREAKERS IN INSTANT CLASSIC
The inaugural Women's Junior A Hockey League playoffs wasted no time delivering an instant classic. In a game that had all the makings of a championship bout, 1st-place Team Gill and 4th-place Eastern Ice Breakers went to war in a physical, high-intensity battle that had fans on the edge of their seats from puck drop to the dramatic overtime finish.
The energy in the building was undeniable as both teams set the tone early. Hits were hard, pace was relentless, and every shift carried the weight of a full season’s worth of effort. It was a playoff-style showdown in every sense of the word.
Despite being the underdog, the Ice Breakers came out firing, peppering Team Gill’s net with 47 shots. On the other end, Team Gill was equally relentless, hammering 45 shots at the Breakers’ goal. The real story? The goalies. Katie Winsor and Airika Penney put on a goaltending masterclass, robbing shooters time and time again with highlight-reel saves that left the crowd gasping in disbelief.
But this game wasn’t just about the netminders. Kennedy Gosse and Olivia King were absolute warriors on the ice, playing with an intensity unmatched in the WJAHL this season. Whether it was battling on the wall, battling in the corners, or delivering fierce contact, they set the standard for playoff hockey. Their energy was contagious, fueling their team in a game where every inch of ice was fought for.
Season point leader Jordyn Piercey, the offensive dynamo who has tormented defenses all year, found herself in prime scoring position on multiple occasions. But despite her best efforts, she just couldn’t find the twine. Winsor and Penney made sure of that, shutting the door on one of the league’s most dangerous scorers.
As regulation time expired with the score locked, overtime loomed, bringing an entirely new level of tension. The back-and-forth continued, each team pushing for that one moment of magic to end it all. And with just one minute left in OT, Team Gill finally broke through. The red light flashed, the crowd exploded, and the players on the ice erupted in celebration.
It was the perfect ending to a game that had everything—skill, grit, and a heart-stopping finish. If this is what playoff hockey in the WJAHL looks like, fans are in for one unforgettable ride. Game One set the bar sky-high, and now, the only question remains: what’s next?
One thing’s for sure—everyone wants more.
AAA U18 Eastern Ice Breakers Clinch League Championship and Secure Atlantic Championship Spot
In a season marked by determination and standout performances, the AAA U18 Eastern Ice Breakers have emerged as League Champions, earning their place in the Atlantic Championship scheduled for April 4th-6th in New Glasgow, NS. This victory not only highlights the team’s unwavering spirit but also paves the way for a chance to compete in the coveted Esso Cup—the U18 Female National Club Championship.
A Season of Triumph
The Ice Breakers’ journey this season has been defined by fierce competition, resilience, and a shared commitment to excellence. Every game showcased the team’s talent and heart, and their recent championship win is a clear testament to the hard work and passion that has propelled them forward. With the Atlantic Championship on the horizon, the team is more motivated than ever to bring their best on the regionals stage.
Celebrating Our Graduating Stars
A special tribute goes to the graduating players who have left an indelible mark on the program. Congratulations to Maggie Strong, Kennedy Gosse, Emma Griffin, Megan Newman, Teiana Lambert, Claire Crocker, Maggie Byer, and Olivia King. Their contributions throughout the season have been pivotal in shaping the team’s success, and their leadership will continue to inspire future generations of players.
Stellar Performances on Both Ends of the Ice
The championship run was bolstered by extraordinary performances in goal and on offense:
Goalie Excellence:
Katie Winsor and Maggie Byer have been rock-solid between the pipes, consistently making key saves and keeping the team in every contest.
Offensive Leadership:
Anastasia Penney led the charge with 3 goals and 8 assists, driving the team forward with her vision and playmaking abilities.
Clutch Scoring:
Teiana Lambert delivered when it mattered most, recording 6 goals and 2 assists during crucial moments of the series, showcasing her ability to rise to the challenge when it mattered most.
Defensive Excellence:
Claire Colford has established herself as an up and coming star with her performance during the Championship run.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Coaches
None of this success would have been possible without the guidance and dedication of our coaching staff. Their commitment to “doing it the right way” has not only refined the team’s skills but also instilled a culture of hard work, discipline, and unity. Their leadership has been instrumental in molding a group of resilient and talented athletes ready to face the next challenge.
Looking Forward
As the team prepares to take on the Atlantic Championship in New Glasgow, NS, the spirit of the AAA U18 Eastern Ice Breakers burns brighter than ever. This championship win is a milestone—a celebration of past achievements and a stepping stone toward even greater success at the Esso Cup. The road ahead is filled with promise, and the entire organization, along with its passionate supporters, eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this exciting journey.
Congratulations to the AAA U18 Eastern Ice Breakers for their championship triumph and best of luck in the Atlantic Championship. Your hard work, talent, and team spirit continue to inspire us all!
