Canada at the 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship: A Legacy in Motion
The puck has dropped in České Budějovice, Czechia, for the 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship—and all eyes are on Team Canada. As defending champions, the Canadian squad enters the tournament with high expectations and a roster built to meet them. With a mix of returning stars and fresh talent, Canada is proving once again why it’s a powerhouse on the world hockey stage.
A Roster of Depth and Potential
Hockey Canada revealed its 25-player lineup on March 21, blending experience with new faces. Seventeen players from the 2024 gold medal-winning team are back in uniform, including fan favourites Marie-Philip Poulin, Sarah Nurse, and Brianne Jenner. Making their debut at the Women’s Worlds are six standout athletes: Jennifer Gardiner, Eve Gascon, Sophie Jaques, Chloe Primerano, Daryl Watts, and Julia Gosling.
An unexpected roster change came when Hannah Miller was ruled ineligible under IIHF transfer rules. Julia Gosling, who helped secure Canada’s win last year, stepped in to complete the lineup.
Early Round Results: Canada Comes Out Strong
Canada’s group-stage performance has been marked by discipline, speed, and solid team chemistry. Here’s how the action has unfolded:
- April 10: Canada blanked Finland 5–0, with Gardiner notching two goals alongside scores from Shelton, Poulin, and Stacy.
- April 11: The team earned another shutout, defeating Switzerland 4–0. Zandee-Hart, Spooner, Stacey, and Watts each found the net.
- April 13: A tightly contested matchup against the U.S. ended in a 2–1 loss, with Canada’s lone goal coming from Laura Stacey.
- April 14: Canada bounced back with a commanding 7–1 win over host nation Czechia. Poulin led the way with a pair of goals, while Watts, O’Neill, and others added to the total.
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Behind the Whistle: Canadian Officials on the Ice
Canada isn’t just making an impact on the scoreboard. Several Canadian officials were selected by the IIHF to referee and oversee this year’s championship—further proof of the country’s leadership in the sport.
Referees: Cianna Lieffers, Elizabeth Mantha, Michelle McKenna, Shauna Neary
Linespersons: Alex Clarke, Laura Gutauskas, Justine Todd, Kirsten Welsh, Erin Zach
Their inclusion reflects Canada’s reputation for developing top-tier officiating talent in addition to world-class athletes.
Where to Watch: TSN & RDS
Canadian fans can follow every play and goal live through TSN and RDS. TSN is broadcasting all 29 games from Budvar Arena, while RDS is offering French-language coverage of all Team Canada games, along with selected quarterfinals, semifinals, and medal-round matchups.
Eyes on the Prize
With a solid start and a seasoned core, Canada is once again chasing gold. But more than that, the team is demonstrating what it means to play with heart, unity, and a deep sense of national pride.
Canadian Officials: Upholding the Game’s Integrity
Canada’s representation extends beyond the players to the officiating. The IIHF selected several Canadian referees and linespersons for the tournament:
- Referees: Cianna Lieffers, Elizabeth Mantha, Michelle McKenna, and Shauna Nery.
- Linespersons: Alex Clarke, Laura Gutauskas, Justine Todd, Kirsten Welsh, and Erin Zach
Their presence underscores Canada’s commitment to excellence in all facets of the sport.
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