Nicole Gosling Shines in PWHL Win During Rookie Hockey Season

London, Ont., native Nicole Gosling is celebrating a remarkable rookie season. The 24-year-old defender helped her team, the Montreal Victoire, clinch the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) championship by defeating the Ottawa Charge 4-0 in Game 4 of the Walter Cup finals on May 20. This victory marks the first time a Canadian team has won the title in the league’s three-season history.

“It’s just an experience that is one of its own to win that Walter Cup,” Gosling said. “If every year’s like this, then sign me up.”

Gosling’s impressive debut season earned her a spot as a finalist for PWHL Rookie of the Year, along with Casey O’Brien of the New York Sirens and Haley Winn of the Boston Fleet. She tied for second in rookie scoring with 19 points in 30 games.

Her key to success? Confidence. “I think just being confident [and] gaining confidence throughout the season,” she explained.

Gosling emphasized that the award is a reflection of her team’s support. “Honestly, if I didn’t have my teammates, I wouldn’t be up for that. They supported me all year. They helped me get to where I was playing by the end of the year, which I’m very thankful for. First year as a pro, you never know how you’re gonna translate out of college.”

Throughout the season, Gosling’s strong support network, including family, teammates, coaches, and staff, helped her feel confident and comfortable. “I think that’s just what helped me thrive,” she said.

The Walter Cup win felt even more special knowing the team remained intact all year without any trades. “We were all together in this, and just being able to throw those gloves up and celebrate with each other was surreal,” Gosling reflected.

As the PWHL’s new expansion teams in Hamilton, Detroit, San Jose, and Las Vegas begin signing players, Gosling is taking things day by day. Though she hopes to stay in Montreal, she recognizes that her future is uncertain. Gosling is not one of the three protected players on the Montreal roster, so she could be moving to a new city next season.

Montreal remains a “great hockey city,” she said, praising the fans for their unwavering energy. “They bring us so much momentum. They cheer for everything, no matter if it’s just a chance, starting up, heading down the ice.”

With a memorable championship run already under her belt, Nicole Gosling is poised for an exciting future in professional hockey.