Strength in unity: UPEI Panthers built to turn lessons into playoff run

The UPEI Women’s Hockey Panthers are hungry for playoff success this year, and they have the determination and focus to get there.

Last year, they missed the playoffs by a single point, but that loss lit a fire under the team.

For head coach Sean Fisher, it reinforced both the team’s potential and the importance of consistent execution.

“The second half of the season showed me what this group can do when we play the right way,” Fisher said. “For us to win, the fundamentals have to be sharp, we need to stay on the attack, shoot with purpose, and bring toughness every night. Those four areas are what we need to carry forward from last season.”

A strong recruiting class

One reason for optimism is the arrival of eight new players who are already making their mark. More than just hockey talent, Fisher said, this group is helping set the tone for the entire program.

“Most importantly, the new team members are great people,” Fisher said. “They care about others, they work incredibly hard, and they are driving our culture in the right direction.”

The infusion of character and competitiveness is expected to blend well with a veteran core hungry to take the next step.

Scoring by committee

If there’s one question mark for the Panthers, it’s where the goals will come from. Fisher expects a balanced offence that’s spread across the lineup, making it unpredictable and difficult to plan for.

“Scoring will be key—that’s no secret,” Fisher said. “Our veterans need to set the tone, not just by putting pucks in the net but also through their daily practice habits, the way they generate offence, and the style of play they bring every day.

Among those poised for breakout seasons are seniors Ashley McCutcheon, Kaiya Maracle, Chiara Esposito, and Chloe McCabe—players who have embraced both leadership and production responsibilities.

Assistant captain Esposito echoed her coach’s sentiment, noting the sting of last year’s near miss has sharpened the group’s focus.

“It was tough getting so close last year and just falling short,” she said. “Despite that, I think it lit a fire under all of us. It taught us that every moment counts, whether it’s the first shift of the period or the final minutes of a must-win game. Going into this season, we know how important it is to stay locked in and consistent from Day 1.”

Defence and goaltending as anchors

While offence remains a work in progress, the Panthers’ back end gives them stability and confidence. The goaltending tandem of Sarah Forsythe and Erin Cabaday returns as one of the team’s most important assets.

“Goaltending is a strength,” Fisher said. “Sarah and Erin can both get the job done at this level and make a difference every night. It allows us to get up the ice a bit and think offensive zone.”

In front of them, the defence corps is anchored by veterans Orianna MacNeil, Anjali Simms, and Sarah Fraser. Fisher praised their toughness and intelligence, noting that the team’s defence has been a point of emphasis for the past two years and has developed into a defining strength.

Strength in unity

After coming up a point short last year, the Panthers enter this season with a chip on their shoulder and something to prove. Fisher knows his roster is smaller than most across the country, but he sees that as an advantage—more opportunity for everyone and a tighter group bound by a shared purpose.

“This team is here for a reason,” he said. “They’ve got the character and leadership to drive us where we want to go.”

The Panthers know exactly what’s at stake. With veteran leadership, fresh talent, and a reliable backbone in goal and on defence, this is a group built for the playoff fight.

“This year feels different,” Esposito said. “Our group is unified and accountable, and everyone is pushing each other to be better. We know what it takes, and we’re committed to doing it together.”