Concordia Stingers women’s hockey team readies for U SPORTS National Championship

The Concordia Stingers women’s hockey team prepares for the U SPORTS National tournament in Saskatchewan after becoming RSEQ Women’s University Hockey League champions for the third year in a row.

They beat the Université de Montréal Carabins in a decisive game three on March 3.

Head coach Julie Chu says their key to success is by taking things one game at a time.

“I think that mindset of you know, taking things one day at a time, taking one game at a time and then within a game, playing one period, one shift has really been an asset for our team,” explained Chu. “So, to the credit of all our players, they’ve really showed up every day to give that effort, to give that mindset, and it allowed us to play some really great hockey throughout the season.”

The Stingers wrapped up their 2023-24 season with a perfect 25-0 record.

Five Concordia players were named to RSEQ All-Star teams in their conference, including forward Emmy Fecteau and Chu was named coach of the year.

In preparation for the tournament, the team has had two practices so far this week.

After losing at the U SPORTS Nationals in 2023, finishing second place, the Concordia Stingers women’s hockey team will return this year to try and win the championship.

“We had two days off to just like refocus and like heal the little injuries and then we started practicing on Wednesday,” said Stingers forward Rosalie Bégin-Cyr.

Chu explained why it’ll be important for her players to enjoy every moment at the tournament.

“When we get there to really just love and enjoy the experience, you know? We worked really hard to get a chance to earn a spot in nationals and it’s not easy to do. I think that’s something that we want to take a lot of pride in and enjoyment in and then once we get there, I think it’s about battling being ready because there’s not a second chance.”

The U SPORTS Nationals start March 14 to 17 at the University of Saskatchewan.