Asha Petrie was on track to finish her minor hockey journey on a high note five years ago, preparing for her final season with the AAA U18 Lloydminster PWM Steelers. However, the 2020-21 hockey season was abruptly canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving players like Petrie disappointed and limited in their options post-minor hockey. Despite offers from the U.S. and SAIT, the abrupt season cancellation left a void.
Amidst the disappointment, Steelers’ head coach Morgan Mann recognized the impact on his players and proposed a groundbreaking idea to reshape girls’ hockey in Lloydminster. Petrie enthusiastically embraced the initiative, showing unwavering trust in Mann’s plan.
Mann and his team approached Lakeland College with a proposal to establish a women’s hockey program, providing a platform for local talent to thrive. The college took a chance on the idea, emphasizing that the team would have to self-fund the program entirely.
Over the past five years, the Lakeland Rustlers women’s hockey team has diligently raised funds through various activities like raffle ticket sales and hockey camps to cover expenses such as ice rentals and travel costs. The team’s dedication to hard work and community support has been pivotal in their success.
Community organizations and local businesses have rallied behind the team, sponsoring essentials like jerseys and workout gear. Tess Wack from the Lloydminster & District Co-op highlighted the team’s integration within the community, praising their willingness to go the extra mile.
Individual fundraising efforts, like the ‘Adopt-a-Rustler program,’ further support the team’s financial needs. Lakeland College offers financial aid through scholarships and government grants, emphasizing the valuable life lessons learned through team sports.
The Rustlers’ remarkable success both on and off the ice has defied initial doubts about their ability to compete without major scholarships. Their recent ACAC conference title victory underscored their talent, work ethic, and community involvement, solidifying their place in the league.
Looking ahead, the Rustlers aim to build on their achievements from their new home at the $101 million Cenovus Energy Hub. As they strive for another successful season, the college explores innovative funding models for their sports programs, recognizing the ongoing support of the Lloydminster community.