“At the end of the day, I’m in an industry that’s about playing hockey. That’s a pretty good gig. And I’ve had it my whole life,” said Carla MacLeod, reflecting on her career as she takes an indefinite leave from her coaching position with the Ottawa Charge to focus on her health.
MacLeod, who was diagnosed with breast cancer just a week into the Premier Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) season in late November, has shown remarkable resilience. Despite her diagnosis, she has only missed one game while undergoing treatment, scheduling her radiation sessions to avoid conflicts with her coaching duties.
The Ottawa Charge, currently holding a record of 13-11-1 and sitting fifth in the league standings, will now be led by interim head coach Haley Irwin during MacLeod’s absence. Irwin expressed the team’s understanding of the situation, stating, “I think, unfortunately, but fortunately maybe, it’s not new to us that Carla has had to step away. So we’ve been through it before as a group, and we know that we just continue to do what we do.”
The organization has expressed full support for MacLeod, requesting privacy for her family as she navigates this challenging period. “She remains in good spirits and is focused on her health and recovery,” the Ottawa Charge stated.
MacLeod, 43, from Spruce Grove, Alberta, has a rich history in women’s hockey. She previously coached the Czechia national women’s hockey team during the Milan Cortina Olympics, where they finished third in Pool A play. Additionally, she is a two-time Olympic gold medalist as a defender on Canada’s national team.
As the Charge continue their season with five games left, the team will undoubtedly feel the impact of MacLeod’s absence. However, her determination to coach despite her health challenges has inspired both her players and the broader hockey community.
With the support of her team and the hockey world, MacLeod’s journey through treatment will be closely followed. The next steps in her recovery and coaching career remain to be seen, but her legacy in the sport is firmly established.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for MacLeod’s return, but her health and recovery remain the priority for both her and the Ottawa Charge.
