Yarmouth’s Allie Munroe soaking in PWHL experience

Several Nova Scotians were part of hockey history.

The puck dropped on the PWHL’s first ever game on New Year’s Day in Toronto.

Yarmouth’s Allie Munroe plays defense for Toronto, and says it was a surreal moment.

“It was a moment I’ll never forget. To see how excited everyone was, and all the little girls and kids in the stands, it was just so exciting, and I’m grateful to be a part of it,” said Munroe.

Stellarton’s Blayre Turnbull is Toronto’s captain, Amherst’s Carly Jackson plays goal, and they are coached by Spryfield’s Troy Ryan.

They played Team New York, who had Halifax’s Jill Saulnier in the line-up.

Saulnier scored in New York’s 4-0 victory, but the game was about more than the final score.

Munroe says she tried to focus on her game.

“I did feel all the support from home, and I used it to motivate me and to try and have fun. This is such an exciting time for women’s hockey, and I’m enjoying it.”

Munroe was drafted by Toronto, she says she grew up a Maple Leafs fan and it’s a dream come true to play there.

“And playing with Blayre, who I looked up to growing up, and playing with Carly again and having Troy as a coach. We have that connection to Nova Scotia, and we always feel like we’re home.”

She hopes the PWHL continues to get momentum, as the games will continue to be featured on major Canadian sports networks.

“I think that’s awesome. More games on TV, easier for people to watch. Girls that play hockey can have role models in the PWHL too. I think this will be a fun year.”