Across North America, PWHL teams are hosting hockey summer camps where the next generation of players are honing their skills. The Victoire is no exception, with the Montreal team running a skills camp at the Dollard-des-Ormeaux Civic Centre this week. A total of 85 girls, ranging in age from 12 to 16 and at all levels from house league to elite, are getting training tips from Walter Cup-winning coach Kori Cheverie, along with stick-handling tips from forward Alexandra Labelle. The camp is a dream she had as a younger player, said Labelle. “When I was younger, I didn’t have this chance. So yes, I can see me dreaming, like when I was younger and I look at their eyes and they’re so happy to be there,” she said, adding they are “lucky to be our own, just girls.” Mckinley Sanderson, 13, plays defence and is thrilled at the opportunity. “I just love that you get to meet these players, make new friends and improve a lot,” she said. The PWHL said they saw a 500 per cent increase in demand for its hockey programming last season and they’re growing what they call “grassroots hockey.” “Winning the Walter Cup definitely increases eyes on the sport, on our players. In general, the PWHL is obviously still in a building phase right now. We’re going into season four and we have an opportunity to help grow the entire game,” said Annie Camins, the PWHL’s vice-president of team operations and initiatives. Parents paid $425 for the young players to have an unforgettable week. Rose Lach, a 12-year-old centre, said it’s been challenging “Whoa! The drills, maybe you go against some girls that are older than you and you just want to compete so you go the max,” she said. With four new PWHL teams joining the league this coming season, nurturing new talent is also about planning ahead, said Cheverie. “Future players. They’re a little young right now. We’re running a camp, but I don’t think we’re out here scouting, but we’re certainly always keeping our eyes on the future generations,” she said.
