University of Alberta The Alberta Pandas dropped two tight games to Trinity Western to start their season: one in overtime and another in a shootout. Not the start they hoped for. But inside the dressing room, there is confidence. The young group knows this story is just beginning.
“We’re a younger core this year,” said fifth-year forward Hayleigh Craig. “So it’s on the veterans to steady the group and help the new players settle in.”
That mix of youth and experience is what keeps the Pandas dangerous. They might have fresh faces in the lineup, but the culture remains the same: fast, physical, and focused.
“Pandas hockey is fast and on-the-puck. Pressure, hard work, and movement all over the ice,” Craig said. “I spent the offseason in the gym with our strength and conditioning coach, Danny Reimer. Expect us to play strong and fast.”
You could feel that energy in Langley last weekend. The Pandas fired 107 shots across two games and outshot their opponents by a wide margin. Hailey Carothers, Kelly Stanford, and Taylor Breen each posted three points. Craig added three assists, showing her steady hand as a playmaker.
Goaltender Grace Glover was sharp, too, turning aside 39 shots in Saturday’s overtime loss. She looked calm under pressure, giving the team a chance every shift.
Head coach Howie Draper has a simple outlook for this new chapter. The group may be younger, but the expectations have not changed. The Pandas want to stay at the top of Canada West, and they have the pieces to do it.
“A lot of our first-years and transfers have stepped up,” Craig said. “Carothers and Stanford from ACAC have slotted in well, and our two 18-year-olds, Emma [Power] and Kate [Williams], are big, strong players. Brayden Stewart skates really well and moves the puck.”
The numbers back it up. Alberta’s power play went 2-for-22, and while that stat might not sparkle, the puck movement was promising. The penalty kill will tighten up, too, after giving up four goals on special teams. These are growing pains every new lineup faces.
In the Canada West Preseason Coaches Rankings, the Pandas were ranked number two, behind the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds.
Craig summed it up best: “it’s always team-first. Know your role, do what it takes, and finish with the two points.”
The Pandas return to Clare Drake Arena this weekend to face the MacEwan University Griffins in their home opener. It is a chance to reset, make changes, and show the fans that last year’s Canada West champions still mean business against their Edmonton rivals.
The season is long, so bring your friends, your cheers, and your voice. The Pandas are just getting started.
