The Lakeland U13 AA Panthers are more than just a hockey team, they are a reflection of the strength, diversity, and unity found across the Lakeland region.
Drawing athletes from communities including Cold Lake, Bonnyville, Elk Point, and Ardmore, the Panthers roster represents players from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. This season, the team has brought together athletes who once competed against each other and helped transform them into a close-knit group united by a shared love of the game.
“It was really neat to see these girls go from competing against each other in the EAFHL to playing on the same team,” said parent Jena Colbourne. “Some of them the last time they met was in a heated overtime game for a medal in league. Others were playing mainstream and hadn’t played on an all-female team before. To become one family all with different backgrounds, schools, and communities was so amazing to watch as a parent.”
Among the 17 players on the roster, the team also features strong Indigenous and Métis representation, with athletes representing Cold Lake First Nations, Frog Lake First Nations, Goodfish Lake First Nations, Saddle Lake First Nations, Ermineskin Cree Nation, and the Kikino Métis Settlement, along with Métis athletes from across the region. For families and players alike, that representation has created meaningful opportunities to learn from one another and build connections that go beyond the rink.
“It’s very special because for our family it has exposed my daughter to cultures and traditions she may not have understood otherwise,” Colbourne shared. “But importantly, it’s brought our area together in ways other events never would. You’re battling on the ice together and getting to know other families, helping carpool or fundraise to ensure everyone has what they need for their daughter to succeed.”
Another important influence for the Panthers this season has been assistant coach Cassidy Dion, a former NCAA Division I player who has quickly become a role model for the team. Coming from a nearby community herself, Dion’s journey has helped players see what is possible through dedication and belief in themselves.
“For her to come from a community 45 minutes away from us and make it to Division I has shown these girls that they can do it. Cassidy always speaks positively of her experiences; she finds the strengths each girl has and mentors them to do their best,” said Colbourne.
For the players themselves, the impact of the season has been just as powerful. “This has been my favourite team,” said Panthers forward Vienna Colbourne. “We didn’t know each other at the start and now we’re family. I’ve never felt this way about a team for any sport before. We all look after each other and cheer each other on. I love hockey so much and I never want this season to end.”
With many players graduating from the U13 level at the end of the season, the success of the Panthers has sparked excitement about the future of female hockey in the Lakeland region. Families and supporters hope the momentum created by this group will continue to open doors for new opportunities and development pathways for young athletes.
The growth is already visible. “We had nine females registered in U7 this year,” said Colbourne. “Our house teams from U13 through U18 had maxed out rosters and our U13 AA Panthers have been having the best season to date. It is beyond amazing to see the growth in female hockey.”
As participation continues to rise, the Panthers have become a powerful example for younger girls watching from the stands or just stepping onto the ice for the first time.
Their message is simple. “Do it!” Colbourne said. “Hockey is for girls, it’s for everyone. No matter where you come from, you’ll find your crew, your family, and your team.”
As a recipient of the Hockey Alberta She Leads Hockey Grant Supported by the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation, the U13AA Lakeland Panthers are taking the next step in their development. The funding will bring in expert support in sports nutrition, mental performance, power skating, and elite off-ice training; all designed to help these athletes grow both on and off the ice.
