Support for Canada’s women’s hockey team felt around the region

Keswick’s own Erin Ambrose played in our Canadian women’s hockey gold medal game against the United States.

Team Canada fell short in the gold medal game at the 2026 Winter Olympics losing 2-1 in overtime to long time rivals Team United States.

Despite the loss, the Town of Keswick was proud of their very own Erin Ambrose who played defence for Canada.

The town had a banner for everyone to sign that will be presented to Ambrose when she returns to town after the Olympics.

Mayor of Keswick Margaret Quirk said the entire town is proud of her.

“We’re very, very proud of Erin and we’re cheering her on and the community is behind her 100 per cent,” said Quirk. “She loves this community. She started her hockey career here as a young, young hockey player.”

Despite the loss, many people were on hand to see Ambrose collect her silver medal.

“They get silver. That’s still a major, major achievement and we’ll have another celebration for Erin once she gets back from the Olympics and gets settled back,” said Quirk.

Viewing parties were also held through the region including the rotunda at City Hall in Barrie.

Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall took a break from his duties and joined in to watch the game.

“It’s a beautiful Canadian moment with a lot of people who are coming in or out of City Hall who can stop, take a look, sit down, move on,” said Nuttall. “I was able to jump down here between my two meetings so I’ll be able to watch a half hour of it.”

The Lockeroom in North Barrie was one of many bars around town hosting people for the big game.

Dana Parris, owner of The Lockeroom, said business has been good and it’s been fun to see everyone come in to support the country.

“It’s been good and Olympic hockey - women’s, men’s, it doesn’t matter. Everybody comes out cheering them on,” said Parris.

The viewing parties will not be slowing down as restaurants, schools and businesses prepare for the men’s hockey team to take centre stage Friday against Finland.