Never backing down: How Montreal Victoire forward Kristin O’Neill found her confidence

As the final seconds ticked down on a tense tie game at Verdun Auditorium, Montreal Victoire forward Kristin O’Neill stepped up to deliver a clutch performance. With less than a minute remaining, O’Neill fired a puck through traffic and beat Minnesota goaltender Maddie Rooney to secure a one-goal lead for Montreal. This game-winning goal was a pivotal moment for O’Neill, who had been struggling to find her scoring touch since returning from a breakout world championship.

Prior to this game, O’Neill had only scored one goal in a Montreal jersey, causing her confidence to waver. However, her experience at the world championship, where she was named one of Canada’s top players, reignited her self-belief. The two power-play goals she scored that night against Minnesota felt like a turning point for O’Neill.

Despite being surrounded by star players like Marie-Philip Poulin, Laura Stacey, and Erin Ambrose, O’Neill plays a crucial role for the Victoire. Known for her ability to win faceoffs, score goals, and excel in less glamorous tasks like penalty killing, O’Neill is a player that opponents dread facing. Her tenacity and work ethic have earned her the respect of her teammates and coaches.

Off the ice, O’Neill is a supportive teammate and a key part of Montreal’s championship aspirations for the upcoming season. Her journey in hockey began in Oakville, where she honed her skills alongside her three older sisters. Despite her small stature, O’Neill’s fearlessness and relentless work ethic set her apart on the ice.

Throughout her career, O’Neill has faced setbacks, including missing out on the 2022 Olympic roster. However, these challenges have only fueled her determination to succeed. With the support of teammates like Erin Ambrose, O’Neill has focused on building her confidence and embracing the journey towards her ultimate goal of making the Olympic team in 2026.

As O’Neill continues to grow and evolve as a player, she remains grounded in her commitment to hard work and perseverance. Her performance on the ice and her unwavering dedication to her craft make her a player to watch in the upcoming season. With a renewed sense of confidence and a supportive team behind her, O’Neill is poised to make a significant impact on Montreal Victoire and beyond.