Springtime isn't stopping dedicated hockey players off the ice. With league and provincial play ending in March, select players who advanced through their respective Sask First competitions have been on the ice in Hockey Saskatchewan garb to start April, club team spring hockey also firing up as well.
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Judging by the Western Prairie Female Hockey social media there were at least six SFHL banners taken home this year, not counting AA programs, and tournament wins. With successful teams spread out throughout the U11 to U18 divisions, Western Prairie teams have no doubt seen an exponential growth over the years in terms of skills and numbers.
Amber Grolla and Marley Ervine were co-head coaches of the U15 AA Western Prairie Thunder this past season, a team that won the provincial championship in dominating fashion.
They both had nothing but rave reviews for the 2024-25 group, partially because they were so familiar already said Grolla.
"Lots of these girls I have been with for four years, coaching them with U13 and then moving to U15," said Grolla, who played NCAA Division 1 hockey herself, hoping for a similar path for her players who no doubt have the talent.
"Lot of really great female players in the area. I know for sure they will have a great future in hockey," finished Grolla, saying some of the girls on this year's team could definitely crack a AAA roster next season.
Ervine also provided comments during the playoffs about Western Prairie Hockey as a whole. Ervine played five seasons with the University of Saskatchewan Huskies women's hockey program, and much like Grolla can see the potential for the next wave of west-central talent.
"I think that the game has definitely grown in our area. There have been some pretty instrumental people involved with the Western Prairie board to make that happen, make sure that these girls growing up can play on an all-girls team."
The dedication over the years has helped churn out some spectacular hockey, in quality and quantity said Ervine.
"Numerous teams across U11 to U18 at various levels, so I think our area should be proud of the players we are developing."
Not only have Ervine, Grolla, and the rest of the coaching staff got a firsthand look at the talent on the ice, they have had a front row seat to watching these players grow as people.
"They are just good kids too. It's great to see."