Young girls dreaming of career in hockey inspired by role models at PWHL Montreal home opener

Among the thousands of fans cheering on Montreal’s PWHL side during the franchise’s home opener Saturday were countless young girls dreaming of a life in hockey.

With their role models on the ice – including fan-favourite Marie-Philip Poulin – the young hockey players were shown that with hard work and determination, that goal could become a reality.

“I like hockey and I want to see the people play,” said Eva Rodrigues, who plays with the Brossard Flames. “And I want to learn from those people so I can play like them too.

“When I see them play, they’re all so good that I want to play like them.”

Rodrigues’ mother Candice Valentine called the moment “huge.”

“It’s amazing to be able to see my daughter now have role models on the ice that she can play and aspire to be one day,” Valentine told CityNews.

“I’m proud of them because they’re able to see other girls succeed, and to play together as a team.”

About 3,245 fans were at the Verdun Auditorium for the home opener, which Montreal dropped 3-2 in overtime to Boston. But the score was secondary for many in attendance.

“I play hockey since I’m young and it’s super great to be here,” Milanne Faubert-Hébert said. “I love the girls on the team and Marie-Philip Poulin, so I’m really excited.”

“It’s the first game in Montreal,” added Fernande Savard. “It’s the opening game of the Montreal team. And also, it’s to support the team. And it’s a historic moment.”

Eloise Rodriguez was hoping for early action as she had to leave early to take part in her own hockey game in Mercier. She held up a colourful sign urging Poulin to score in the first period.

“I came here because this is important for me, even if I have a game,” said Rodriguez, who fell in love with the sport after she started skating at a young age.

“The NHL is for men and it’s really hard for women to get in. Now there’s a girls’ league, and girls can continue to play hockey when they get older.

“I would love to get paid for doing what I love.”

Poulin may not have scored in the first period but she did put the puck in the back of the net in overtime. It looked like her goal would stand as the winner – what would have been a storybook ending for Montreal – but it was disallowed for goaltender interference.

“She’s the captain, she’s a leader and she encourages others. She’s a great hockey player and I want to be like her,” said Lily Kazamias, who plays for the Chevaliers De Boucherville.

Chants of “Montreal, Montreal” echoed throughout Verdun Auditorium despite the loss. Montreal, which is 2-1-1 to start the PWHL season, takes on New York at Place Bell Tuesday.