Leighton Geraghty – Contributor

The Bishop’s Gaiters had yet another hardworking season. The women’s hockey team battled extremely hard throughout the entirety of their season. With many new faces on the team and a couple of significant injuries throughout the year they gave it their all until the very last whistle. The program, which evolved from a club team years ago, graduated their incoming class of 2021. They started off on a fiery start this year taking down U SPORTS powerhouse the Concordia Stingers twice. These are Concordia’s only two losses up to this date. While looking back at this year, many players made a name for themselves. Sandrine Chouinard was named not only to the RSEQ rookie all-star team but also named to the U SPORTS all-rookie team. Gabrielle Santerre climbed her way back after being robbed of recognition as an RSEQ all-star last year. Santerre was 3rd amongst players in the Q in points which gave her another accolade as she was named a 2nd team All-Canadian. 

I was fortunate to be able to get in touch with Justine Turcotte, a fourth-year on the Gaiters team. Turkey, as the team calls her, is in a very interesting position. As USPORTS grants you five years of eligibility, she has the choice of graduating or returning to the team to try and finish the unfinished business from this season. Turcotte expressed that her favourite part of the season is the playoffs. She said, “I think playoffs are the most exciting and fun time of the year. We are as connected as we can be as a team. It’s just great to experience that with the other girls.” The Gaiters were unfortunately eliminated in the semi finals. Furthermore in conversation Turcotte expressed her excitement to come back next year and utilize her fifth year of eligibility. She said, “I’m looking forward to playing my last season as a Gaiter. It will be a great final chance to keep improving and hopefully succeeding as a team.” The team will look to avenge their loss this season with notable veterans and a lot of sophomore campaigns returning to the squad. We look forward to seeing the on-ice product next year. Let’s go Gaiters!