What an absolute triumph for Women’s Ice Hockey in Western Australia! The 2023 Stephanie Boxall National Women’s Championship was a true spectacle of skill, athleticism, and passion for the game. From the opening rounds to the electric Grand Final, the players left it all on the ice at Cockburn Ice Arena and gave fans an unforgettable experience.
And what a Grand Finale it was! WA clashed with VIC in a must-see matchup that left fans on the edge of their seats. With every second of the game, it became clear that the WA team were unstoppable, unleashing a flurry of goals and shots that Victoria simply couldn’t keep up with. In the end, the Western Australians claimed a resounding 11-0 victory, taking home the Gold Medal and cementing their status as undefeated champions.
But let’s not forget the heroines behind the win. The Western Australian team was a true powerhouse, and one of its stars was none other than our very own Anna Shepherd, the Coordinator at Swan Active Leisure Centre in Midland. Known for her physicality, determination and hard work, Anna showed her mettle on the ice in the Grand Final, racking up an impressive performance as she and her teammates dominated their opponents.
This win is a testament to what can be achieved when passion, hard work, and dedication are combined. Of course, we had a chat with Anna to learn about her journey and her championship experience. Holy cow, her answers blew us away and left us with an even greater appreciation for the true grit, determination, and drive that define a champion.
Anna, describe yourself as inspiring ice-hockey player in three words!
Shot blocking defenceman 😊
How long have you been playing ice-hockey?
I started to learn to play hockey 11 years ago. My husband (who also played) bought me a pair of skates for Christmas one year and that was it. After a year or two of learning to play I entered into the Northern Ice Hockey Club to play for the Northern Knights. I was very privileged to start playing at a state level in 2016 and have been playing in various tournaments over the years. Unfortunately, I took leave in 2019 due to an ACL injury which sidelined me for 18months. It made me more determined to return to the sport stronger and fitter then before.
Do you feel that winning your games is important?
We all love a win but some of the best games I’ve played we have lost. It about the teammates you play with, the determination to give it your all, journey to get where you are and the drive to be better which makes it all so much sweeter when you do win together.
What strategies did your team use to win the grand final?
I like this question, it was a simple strategy. Everyone was to be involved, to play hard (the usual plays and such) be positive on the bench but what was important was really to have fun doing it. The fun part had the most impact 😊
How would you describe the atmosphere in the locker room right before the game?
The atmosphere was pretty chilled. There was an air of quiet confidence and positivity as music pumped while everyone completed their pre-game rituals and got into the game headspace. Everyone was motivated and determined to play hard to win.
How would you describe the atmosphere in the locker room right after the game? 😊
Unbelievable! The vibe was electric! Loads of loud music, cheering, celebrating a few wacky dance moves may have been made.
If a kid asked you for advice on becoming a professional ice-hockey player, what would you tell them?
Be a good teammate, love every minute of playing both good and bad, and focus your journey. This sport is constantly evolving, if people take the time to share some advice or a learning take a minute to take it all in.
It’s inspiring to see the impact that the Stephanie Boxall National Women’s Championship, hosted by Ice Hockey Western Australia (IHWA) has had on women’s ice hockey in Australia, and long may it continue. Cheers to Team WA for skating their way to Gold! Let’s keep the puck moving forward, ladies.
Photo Credit: alistairraine
