Nova Scotians with Toronto Sceptres heading for PWHL playoff rematch

The Toronto Sceptres, with several Nova Scotia players on their roster, are gearing up for a playoff semifinals rematch against the reigning Walter Cup champions, the Minnesota Frost. This matchup presents a chance at redemption for the Sceptres, who were defeated by Minnesota in last season’s semifinals of the Professional Women’s Hockey League.

Third-string goaltender CJ Jackson, a native of Amherst, N.S., expressed the team’s excitement for the upcoming game. “We’ve got a chip on our shoulder, and this is a great opportunity for us to prove ourselves,” Jackson stated.

Having finished the regular season in second place, the Sceptres have secured a spot in the playoffs for the second consecutive year in the relatively new league. Jackson recently made their first start in the PWHL on April 29, securing a win in a shootout and helping the team secure home-ice advantage for the opening round of the playoffs.

Allie Munroe, a defender from Yarmouth, N.S., emphasized that this year’s Toronto team is focused on the present and not dwelling on past losses. Munroe was recently named an alternate captain, an honor she described as a source of pride.

The Sceptres’ leadership team includes captain Blayre Turnbull, a native of Stellarton, N.S., and head coach Troy Ryan from Spryfield, N.S. Jackson and Munroe both highlighted the importance of reflecting on their experiences in the league and staying grateful for the opportunity to play professional hockey.

The best-of-five series between Toronto and Minnesota kicks off on Wednesday at 8 p.m. AT (7 p.m. ET) at Toronto’s Coca-Cola Coliseum. Fans are eagerly anticipating this highly anticipated matchup, as the Sceptres aim to dethrone the reigning champions and advance to the next stage of the playoffs.