Jefferson Hagen
MacEwan Athletics

EDMONTON – With the Griffins women's hockey team graduating three of its top penalty killers from last season, the search was on for a recruit who can step into that role for the team in 2023-24.

Head coach Chris Leeming found the right player in the Saskatchewan talent pool, landing hard-working, tenacious defensive forward Ashton Bender from the Weyburn Gold Wings (U18AAA).

"She's going to be in a checking line role for us, a penalty killer and be tough to play against," said Leeming. "That was kind of the role she played for Weyburn the last couple of years.

"With the loss of three of our top penalty killers this past year to graduation (Amanda Murray, Shyla Kirwer and Jayme Doyle), that's kind of the role we're looking for her to fill. We're trying to fill those voids in our lineup to try and make us more competitive every day."

Bender played a key role for Weyburn over the past three seasons, tasked with shutting down opponent's top lines. Last season, she served as an assistant captain of the Gold Wings, finishing second in team scoring with 11 points in 30 games, and added a goal in two playoff contests.

"She's been in a leadership position for them the past couple years and has a phenomenal attitude and work ethic," said Leeming. "Bringing in some strong academic kids is part of the process, too. She's been listed on the principal's list at her school for Grades 10 to 12. 

"Her potential and upside is great – she's made a lot of development the last few years."

Bender is coming off a huge honour from her hometown, too, as she was inducted last December into the Wall of Fame at the Mike Schwean Arena in Moosomin, Sask. – a town most famous for producing former Edmonton Oilers head coach and long-time NHL player Dave Tippett.