At the conclusion of the previous season, Marie-Philip Poulin departed the PWHL’s awards ceremony in Ottawa with an armful of accolades. Among her accomplishments were the Billie Jean King Most Valuable Player award, Forward of the Year title, and top goalscorer recognition, having netted 19 goals in 30 regular-season matches.
Despite her stellar MVP season, Poulin fell short of securing the two trophies she desired most. Her Montreal Victoire squad was ousted in the initial playoff round for the second consecutive year, shortly after Canada lost the world championship to the United States in overtime.
Reflecting on her season, Poulin expressed a mix of satisfaction and determination, stating, “The year was good, but not good enough.” She emphasized her ongoing commitment to excellence during an interview with CBC Sports in August before joining the national team’s training program.
Looking ahead, Poulin eyes the opportunity to clinch her fourth Olympic gold medal at her fifth Games. Only a few hockey legends, including Jayna Hefford, Hayley Wickenheiser, and Caroline Ouellette, have achieved this feat.
Maintaining humility, Poulin expressed her hopes of participating in her fifth Olympics, acknowledging the swift passage of time and the significance of such an accomplishment. She remains focused on the upcoming season, aiming to secure the Walter Cup title in her third PWHL campaign, which now features eight competing teams.
While Poulin savors each moment and avoids complacency, she is fueled by a relentless drive for success. She stressed the dedication and hard work required to reach her goals, emphasizing her hunger for victory.
As Poulin gears up for her final Olympics, fans anticipate another thrilling showdown between her and American star Hilary Knight, a rivalry that has captivated audiences for over a decade. Knight has confirmed that Milan-Cortina will mark her last Olympic appearance but intends to prolong her professional career.
When asked about her post-Olympics plans, Poulin expressed her love for the sport and enjoyment of the present moment, indicating that she has yet to finalize her future aspirations. The upcoming Olympic season will present a different format, with training blocks across various locations leading up to the Games and a series of Rivalry games against the United States.
The Canadian team is embarking on a rigorous season, meticulously planned by the coaching staff since the inception of the PWHL two years ago. This structured approach allows Poulin more time in Montreal and with her beloved pet, Arlo.
Despite her growing experience and age, Poulin remains grateful for the team’s progress and the influx of new talent. She embraces each day and training camp with gratitude as she continues her pursuit of excellence on the ice.
